Charlotte, N.C., August 2, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte, N.C. experienced severe thunderstorms resulting in widespread power outages and significant flight delays. The storms, which began in the afternoon, led to numerous severe thunderstorm warnings and left thousands without power. Charlotte-Douglas International Airport faced extensive flight disruptions, affecting over 500 flights. Residents reported storm damage across multiple counties, with local authorities advising safety measures as forecasts predict further storms and a drastic temperature drop in the upcoming days.
Charlotte, N.C. Experienced Severe Thunderstorms Causing Power Outages and Flight Delays
Severe thunderstorms swept through Charlotte, North Carolina, on Friday afternoon, resulting in widespread power outages, flight delays, and significant damage in several areas. The storms began around 2 p.m. and continued into the evening, prompting local authorities to issue several severe thunderstorm warnings.
According to forecasts from WCNC Charlotte’s Weather Impact Team, slow-moving storms were expected to bring heavy rain and damaging winds. The initial warnings affected five counties, including Mecklenburg, Catawba, Iredell, Lincoln, and Rowan, around 4 p.m. As the storm progressed, warnings were extended to Uptown Charlotte and included Cabarrus, Gaston, and York counties by 5 p.m., with all of Mecklenburg County and parts of Union County added by 5:15 p.m.
Significant issues arose at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, which faced a ground stop due to the inclement weather. The initial stop was set to last until 5:30 p.m., but it was extended multiple times, eventually lasting until 7 p.m. By 7 p.m., at least 537 flights were reported delayed, adding to the disruptions experienced by travelers.
Duke Energy reported around 18,000 customers without power in the Charlotte area by 6:15 p.m., with statewide outages reaching 23,500. The hardest-hit areas included Mecklenburg County, with about 9,100 outages, followed by Gaston County at 3,900, Iredell County at 1,700, and Cabarrus County with 1,400 outages. Major affected regions included Troutman, Odell School in Cabarrus County, and several areas in Gaston County including Spencer Mountain, Dallas, and Bessemer City.
The severe storms also caused physical damage in various areas, including reports of downed trees in the Ballantyne region, which contributed to the power outages. A photojournalist captured stunning visuals of lightning striking near a Wendy’s restaurant in west Gastonia, highlighting the intensity of the storm.
As the storms continued to impact the area through the late afternoon and evening, CMPD Animal Care & Control also lost power, forcing the shelter to close earlier than usual. Reports of storm damage began pouring in from residents, prompting local authorities to encourage community members to share any photos or videos of the damage via the WCNC Charlotte app.
The region was already experiencing high temperatures, with heat index values between 100 and 105 degrees prior to the storms. Following this intense weather, weather forecasts predict a drastic temperature drop, with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms expected on Saturday.
Key Statistics
As the severe weather continued to be analyzed, the key statistics emerging from the storm are outlined below:
- Customers without power: 18,000 in Charlotte area, 23,500 statewide
- Flight delays: 537 flights at Charlotte Douglas Airport by 7 p.m.
- Severe storm warnings: Issued for multiple counties, including Mecklenburg and Gaston
- High heat index values: Ranging from 100 to 105 degrees before storms
- Projected weather changes: 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms on Saturday
Conclusion
The severe thunderstorms that affected the Charlotte area on Friday afternoon caused significant power outages and flight disruptions. Residents are encouraged to remain safe and report any ongoing damage while the situation continues to evolve.
FAQ
What should residents do during severe thunderstorms?
Residents should stay indoors, avoid using electronics, and stay updated on weather alerts through reliable channels.
How can I report a power outage?
Customers can report power outages to their utility provider through their website or customer service hotline.
What areas were most affected by the storms?
The storms primarily affected Mecklenburg County, Gaston County, and Iredell County, with numerous outages reported in these areas.
Will there be more storms following this event?
Forecasts predict a 50% chance of additional showers and thunderstorms on Saturday.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Extreme Heat Wave Sweeps Across the Northeast U.S.
Charlotte Enjoys Temporary Relief from Heatwave
Charlotte Faces Extreme Heat Advisory This Weekend
Charlotte Faces Heat Advisory as Temperatures Climb
Severe Weather Disrupts Flights at Charlotte-Douglas Airport
Severe Weather Disrupts Travel at Charlotte Airport
Grand Canyon Lodge Lost to Wildfires: A Tragic Loss
Severe Weather Hits Charlotte Area
Additional Resources
- WCNC: Storm Damage Reports
- QC News: Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding
- WBTV: Round of Storms Forecast
- Charlotte Observer: Weather News
- WBTV: Storms Forecast Ahead
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Google Search: Charlotte NC Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
- Weather.com: Current Weather in Charlotte
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorms in Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
