Tornado warning in Charlotte NC - check timeline and areas of impact

The National Weather Service reported Monday morning that a Tornado Warning for the Charlotte region has ended. However, residents are still experiencing several hours of extreme thunderstorms. The 13-county area remained under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 11 a.m., with forecasters cautioning of potential pea-sized hail.

Storm Causes Damage in South Carolina

Earlier today, the storm system tore the roof off a building in Gaffney, South Carolina, according to WYFF. At the time, the region was under a Tornado Warning. “The main area of concern is south of I-85 and along/east of the I-77 corridor. These locations have a more favorable environment for damaging straight line winds and tornadoes, along the leading edge of the line of thunderstorms,” the NWS reported Sunday.


“Though hail is possible, confidence is lower and the main focus is for the damaging winds and tornadoes,” forecasters stated.

Weather Forecast: Showers, Wind Gusts, and Temperature Drop

Meteorologists forecast an 80% possibility of showers and thunderstorms through Monday, with winds between 16 to 21 mph and gusts up to 40 mph. Up to half an inch of rain is anticipated in the morning.

Evening showers may linger, with a 30% chance of rainfall before 8 p.m., followed by gradual clearing. The risk of strong winds will continue, with gusts peaking at 30 mph.

“This line moves into our area this morning and quickly moves east by this afternoon,” the NWS cited. “An area of generally light showers will move in behind the line and remain over the area into the afternoon before the cold front moves through.”

The nearing cold front is anticipated to bring a sharp temperature drop of around 30 degrees. Monday’s highs will reach the upper 60s, while Monday night lows could fall near 29 degrees. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain at or below freezing through Wednesday.

Travel Disruptions at Charlotte and Atlanta Airports

The FAA issued a ground stop at Charlotte Douglas International Airport Monday morning because of the extreme storm threat and the tornado warning. By 10 a.m., FlightAware reported 303 flight cancellations and 159 delays, totaling 462 interruptions. The ground stop, which started at 8:29 a.m., is set to last at least until 10 a.m.

FAQs:

Q1. What caused the severe weather in Charlotte?
The area experienced a strong storm system that brought thunderstorms, hail, and high winds. Tornado warnings were issued due to the potential for rotating storms.

Q2. Is the tornado warning still in effect?
No, the Tornado Warning has expired for the Charlotte area. However, severe thunderstorms are still expected.