Severe Weather? Oh Hail, Say It Ain’t So!

Foothills and Mountains Weather Blog | Thursday, April 10, 2025

Clouds have settled in across western North Carolina this morning, keeping temperatures cool and setting the stage for a potentially active afternoon. A frontal system is approaching from the west, bringing the chance for scattered thunderstorms to develop later today—some of which could become strong to marginally severe.

Severe Storm Potential This Afternoon

The region is under a marginal risk for severe weather today. While widespread severe storms are not expected, a few thunderstorms could pack a punch, with gusty winds and large hail being the main concerns. The best window for stronger storms will be mid to late afternoon as temperatures rise and instability increases slightly.

Any storm that forms could bring localized downpours, brief wind gusts capable of knocking down small limbs or causing spotty damage, and even some hail, particularly in higher elevations or areas where storms can briefly intensify.

Area Highlights

• Asheville: Mostly cloudy with showers developing this afternoon. Thunderstorms may form later in the day. Temperatures will top out around 60°F.

• Hickory, Newton, and Claremont: Overcast skies early giving way to scattered storms later today. A few storms could be strong with gusty winds and small hail possible. Highs in the low 60s.

• Lenoir and Taylorsville: This area will be closer to the mountains, where colder air aloft could help support a stronger updraft or two. Storms this afternoon could produce small hail and gusty winds.

• Lincolnton and Gastonia: Expect mostly cloudy conditions with peaks of sun. Storms could develop in the late afternoon with a low-end risk for isolated wind gusts.

• Columbus and Forest City: Scattered showers will increase through the afternoon. With a bit more warmth and terrain enhancement, isolated stronger storms are possible.

• Little Switzerland: Cooler and cloudier than most spots, but with some instability aloft, this higher elevation area could see a few stronger cells capable of producing hail.

Tonight

Storm activity may linger into the early overnight hours. Lows will dip into the mid-40s, and though it’ll feel chilly and damp, frost is not expected.

Looking Ahead

Friday morning could still see a few lingering showers before drier air begins moving in. The weekend looks much more pleasant, with sunshine returning and temperatures beginning to rebound.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t a high-impact severe weather setup, but it’s worth staying aware of your surroundings later today. Keep in mind that even one strong storm can bring down trees or power lines. Make sure you have a way to receive weather alerts and keep an eye on the radar this afternoon, especially in areas west of I-77 and across the higher elevations.

Stay weather-aware, and we’ll continue to keep you updated as conditions evolve throughout the day.