CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The aftermath of powerful storms sweeping through the Carolinas has left more than 50,000 customers without power as of 5:55 a.m. on Sunday, March 16, 2025. The severe weather, featuring strong winds and heavy rainfall, triggered widespread outages across multiple counties, impacting both North and South Carolina.
Duke Energy initially reported about 43,000 outages early Sunday. The situation worsened as more reports came in, bringing the total to over 50,000 outages. Many areas are seeing significant impacts, particularly Western North Carolina, where approximately 40,000 customers are affected. By 7:30 a.m., the outages were concentrated primarily in the following counties:
- Buncombe County: 6,356 customers without power, with restoration estimates by 7 p.m.
- Henderson County: 326 customers affected, expected restoration by 5 p.m.
- Haywood County: 3,773 customers impacted, estimated to be restored by 9:18 p.m.
- Transylvania County: 7,730 customers remain without power as restoration details are still being assessed.
- McDowell County: 1,342 outages, with restoration expected by 6 p.m.
Outside of North Carolina, significant outages were noted in several South Carolina counties as well, with detailed reports including:
- Greenville County: 2,702 customers affected, restoration expected by 10:30 a.m.
- Pickens County: 284 customers without power, estimated restoration by 9:31 a.m.
- Spartanburg County: 128 customers facing outages, with repairs projected by 10 a.m.
The storms have been accompanied by high winds, with gusts recorded at up to 84 mph at Grandfather Mountain, 65 mph at Downtown Asheville, and 59 mph at Asheville Airport. Rain totals showed significant accumulation, with Robbinsville receiving 1.78 inches and Highlands 1.67 inches. Such heavy precipitation contributed to flooding and increased challenges for repair crews.
Reports of wind damage have been widespread, with numerous trees reported down across the region. Areas particularly hard hit include McDowell County, south of I-40, and Northern Cherokee County, where fallen trees damaged homes, particularly noted near Whittier. A total of 223 storm reports have been logged within the last 24 hours due to severe weather systems.
Duke Energy has deployed crews strategically located within affected communities to expedite repairs and minimize restoration time for customers. “We have been prepared for storms like this and are working continuously to restore power to our communities,” said Duke Energy representatives.
Residents are reminded to steer clear of downed power lines, treating them as if they are energized and dangerous. Duke Energy advises anyone identifying hazardous situations to report them immediately, and emphasizes caution when encountering storm debris.
Those needing to report outages can text OUT to 57801 or call the automated outage-reporting system at 800-769-3766. For those wishing to keep tabs on outages, real-time outage maps are available online, showing current restoration efforts and estimated times.
Officials are also noting the potential for additional severe weather as the systems continue to move through the region, prompting forecasts of possible hail and isolated tornadoes particularly affecting the Charlotte metro area.
Storm conditions are expected to gradually improve throughout the day, but vigilance and preparedness are still key as communities work to recover from the impact of this extreme weather. Updates from local news sources including WBTV will continue to provide residents with the latest information.