Severe thunderstorms swept across the Carolinas on Sunday, March 16, 2025, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue multiple weather alerts throughout the region. These alerts forecast significant wind gusts, hail, and even the potential for isolated tornadoes as strong cold fronts move through the area.
The NWS Greenville-Spartanburg reported at 7:25 a.m. on March 16, 2025, of strong thunderstorms expected to last until 8 a.m. The warning covers areas including Rutherford Mountains, Greater Rutherford, Polk Mountains, Eastern Polk, and parts of Buncombe and Henderson counties. The radar indicated storms packing wind gusts up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail, with Doppler radar tracking one storm located 9 miles east of Hendersonville, moving northeast at 30 mph.
"At 7:25 a.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 9 miles east of Hendersonville, or 5 miles south of Bat Cave, moving northeast at 30 mph," noted the NWS. The agency warned residents to expect gusty winds strong enough to knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. They were advised to seek shelter indoors if outdoors during these storms.
Following the Greenville alert, the NWS Blacksburg issued its report at 8:05 a.m., detailing strong thunderstorms until 8:30 am for Ashe, Watauga, and Wilkes counties. Residents were cautioned to prepare for winds gusting up to 55 mph. "Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects," emphasized the NWS Blacksburg report.
Storms were continuing to develop throughout the morning, with Doppler radar identifying another strong thunderstorm over Darby, approximately 8 miles south of Deep Gap. This storm was moving at 40 mph toward the northeast, prompting local officials to expect similar impacts as reported earlier.
Weather experts remind residents about safety precautions during thunderstorms. "If outdoors, seek shelter inside a building," was the clear message from the NWS, echoing the sentiment found across multiple reports. With around 25 million lightning strikes occurring annually across the United States and the majority during summer months, safety measures are imperative, especially as these storms approach.
The probability of lightning strikes increases significantly as thunderstorms approach, reaching its peak intensity when the storm is directly overhead. For those unable to find immediate shelter, it is recommended to avoid open fields, tall trees, and isolated ridges. Groups should space out to prevent the current from transferring between individuals, and campers should seek lower spots, bearing in mind tents do not serve as protection from lightning.
Given the conducive storm conditions, drivers were also warned to remain cautious. Rainy weather tips include turning headlights on for visibility, steering clear of puddles which can cause hydroplaning, and maintaining safe distances from larger vehicles which may obscure vision with water sprays. The risk of hydroplaning is heightened by increased vehicle speeds, water depths, and tire tread conditions, emphasizing the need for careful inspection before hitting the road.
The storms were forecast to be accompanied by heavy rain, creating conditions for potential flooding and hazardous driving situations. Indeed, the NWS shared precautions for those on the road: avoiding flooded areas and being ready to turn back when faced with substantial rainfall.
Despite the downpour expected during the day, forecasts anticipate clearer skies and improved conditions for the upcoming week. Monday, March 17, 2025, will see sunny weather with temperatures expected to reach the low to mid-60s, making for pleasant conditions for St. Patrick’s Day activities. The midweek forecast looks equally enticing, with highs returning to the 70s on Tuesday and Wednesday. Overall, residents can look forward to dry conditions following the storm.
With the ebbs and flows of Carolina weather, preparedness continues to be the key. Notifications from the NWS remind all citizens to stay updated on weather conditions and act quickly during severe events. Such vigilance not only ensures personal safety but promotes communal resilience against unpredictable weather swing.