Keeping You Safe Before, During & After The Storm!
Summer continues to hang on for September; A look as to why?
Why is the hot weather hanging on in North Carolina during September?
El Niño-driven 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season on verge of breaking record
By: Lead Forecaster Daniel Crawley Good Sunday evening, the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has been very quiet relatively speaking and compared to recent years. The strengthening El Niño has played a big role in squelching tropical activity, especially in the main development region of the Atlantic basin. September 10 is the climatological peak of the…
Sunday (9/6/26) Discussion: More storms anticipated today, showers could linger into the night
A look at the weather setup for September 6, 2026 across the North Carolina foothills and western Piedmont.
Isolated to Widely Scattered Severe Storms Possible This Afternoon
Good Saturday afternoon! We are watching the weather closely across western North Carolina this afternoon, but I want to start with something that can easily get lost when we start talking about severe weather: thunderstorms are not expected to impact everyone today. Storm coverage should remain isolated to widely scattered. There will likely be plenty…
Tuesday (9/1/26) Discussion: How long will the heat persist?
Discussion breaking down how long the above normal temperatures will last in the North Carolina foothills to start September 2026
Sunday Discussion (8/30/26): Major Late-Summer Warmup on the Way
Hot weather returns to North Carolina foothills to begin September 2026
Sunday 8/23/26 Discussion: Much needed break from humidity
By: Lead Forecaster Daniel Crawley The main story for today and tomorrow is decreasing humidity and a near-zero thunderstorm threat. The stifling humidity and storms has had a big presence on the local weather most of the summer. A weak front/air-mass change is moving through the region, allowing drier air to filter southward. Around the…
Storms Return This Evening Before a Cooler, Drier Pattern Arrives
We have another couple of hot, humid and increasingly unsettled days to get through before a cold front finally brings some meaningful changes to our weather this weekend. Thunderstorms return to the forecast later today and this evening, with at least a few storms potentially becoming strong to severe. Friday then looks increasingly active as…
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued Through 10 PM Monday
As of 5:50pm the risk for severe weather including damaging winds has increased. The development of numerous storms in a moist, unstable environment in the lee of the Appalachians have slowly clustered and grown upscale this afternoon. Within a modestly favorable low-level westerly shear environment (i.e., 0-3 km shear around 20-25 knots per mesoanalysis and…
Strong Storms Possible Monday as an Active Summer Pattern Continues
We are heading into another very August-like stretch of weather across the western North Carolina mountains, foothills, and northwest Piedmont, with plenty of humidity, warm afternoons, and repeated opportunities for thunderstorms. Monday, however, deserves a little more attention than the typical summertime afternoon. The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of the region in a…
Thunderstorms To Rapidly Increase In Coverage and Intensity Saturday Afternoon
SPECIAL WEATHER DISCUSSIONFoothills Weather NetworkSaturday, August 15, 2026 AREAS AFFECTED: Western North Carolina, including portions of the southern and central mountains, foothills, and adjacent western Piedmont. CONCERN: Thunderstorm activity is expected to rapidly increase in both coverage and intensity over the next several hours, with some storms capable of becoming severe within the highlighted area.…
Heavy Rainfall Discussion: Localized Flash Flood Threat Today Between 3pm and 7pm Across Western North Carolina
The region is experiencing increasingly unstable atmospheric conditions, fueled by daytime heating and moisture from the Gulf and Atlantic, leading to intense rainfall.
Back to an Unsettled Pattern: Heavy Rain, Localized Flooding, and Daily Storm Chances Return. Nocturnal Thunderstorms Possible
After three beautiful days to wrap up last week, we’ve settled right back into a much more active weather pattern across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia. Sunshine and comfortable conditions have given way to an atmosphere loaded with tropical moisture, and that means we’re once again watching for daily rounds of showers and thunderstorms…
NWS: Periods of Heavy Rain Continues Overnight With Ongoing Flash Flood Threat.
Heavy rains threaten the eastern slopes of the southern Appalachians, with South Carolina Upstate, western North Carolina, and southwest Virginia at risk. Storms, fueled by moist air and upslope winds, have already brought significant rainfall and are expected to intensify further.
Tornado Threat Expanded Across All of Western North Carolina Today. Ensure Wireless Emergeny Alerts Are Enabled on Cell Phones
The severe weather threat has increased across our area this afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center has expanded the tornado risk to include all of western North Carolina, the northern South Carolina Upstate, and extreme northeast Georgia. Damaging winds and large hail remain the primary threats, but the environment will also support an isolated…
Severe Thunderstorm Threat Increasing Tuesday Afternoon Across the Foothills and Western North Carolina
Severe weather is on the horizon for Tuesday! Thunderstorms with damaging winds and hail are expected, so take precautions and stay indoors.
Weather Patterns Remains Active: Next Severe Weather Risk Arrives Tuesday.
A cold front is approaching the Carolinas, bringing a more active weather pattern to the region. Temperatures will climb into the lower and middle 90s, with high humidity fueling the development of thunderstorms. While widespread severe weather is not expected, much of western North Carolina is under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for…
Morning Weather Update: Flash Flood Risk Continues Through Today
Prepare for Rain and Flooding: Stay Informed and Safe as the Front Moves Through the Region
Much-Needed Rain Comes With a Catch: Flash Flood Risk Through Friday
A slow-moving cold front is expected to bring heavy showers and thunderstorms to western North Carolina over the next 36 hours, potentially leading to flash flooding.
Increasing Concern for Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Late Wednesday into Thursday
Wednesday marks the beginning of a more active weather pattern, with showers and thunderstorms becoming widespread during the afternoon and evening, especially across the mountains and foothills.
Flash Flood Threat Continues This Morning Across the Foothills and Mountains
If you’ve looked outside this morning, you’ve probably noticed the steady rain and slow-moving downpours. Additionally, streams and creeks are swollen from overnight heavy rainfall. Currently, the flood advisories have expired across the majority of the foothills. The one exception is Surry and Wilkes County, where a Flash Flood Warning is ongoing. Unfortunately, the weather…
Flash Flood Threat Increasing Overnight Across the Foothills and Piedmont
Stay alert as flash flooding threatens the Blue Ridge region tonight. Slow-moving storms will bring heavy rainfall and potential road closures. Areas from Burke to Rutherford should monitor weather closely.
NWS Mesoscale Discussion: Flash Flooding Likely This Afternoon As Rain Expands
A slow-moving weather system is causing repeated showers and thunderstorms, leading to potential flash flooding. Rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are common, with some areas receiving over 2 inches in a single hour.
Stormy Pattern Continues: Severe Weather and Flash Flooding Remain a Concern
The Foothills and Piedmont are at risk of severe weather this afternoon and evening, with damaging straight-line winds and torrential rainfall. Tropical-level moisture and increased wind shear will enhance rainfall rates, leading to localized flash flooding. Residents should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Stormy Pattern Continues: Damaging Wind Threat Today, Flooding Risk Increases Early Next Week
If you’ve been hoping for a break from the daily thunderstorms, you’re going to have to wait a little longer. The atmosphere will remain active through at least Monday, bringing daily opportunities for strong to severe thunderstorms along with an increasing threat for localized flash flooding. The good news is that the heat we’ve been…
Friday Brings a Better Chance for Strong Storms Across the Foothills. A Weekend Outlook
As the weekend approaches, the atmosphere is becoming more favorable for stronger storms. Be prepared for damaging winds, frequent lightning, torrential rainfall, and small hail. Stay informed and take precautions.
The Heat Isn’t Done Yet: Holiday Weekend Forecast for the Foothills
Here’s the scoop on the scorching heat gripping the Foothills this Independence Day weekend. Temperatures are climbing into the 90s, with humidity making it feel like 100-105 degrees. Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and check on vulnerable neighbors. This intense heat won’t last forever, but we’ll still be in for some warm days…
Dangerous Heat Peaks Heading Into the Holiday Weekend. A Few Severe Storms Possible
Attention Carolinians! This summer’s heat wave is on the way, with temperatures expected to reach the upper 90s. Stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay safe. Remember to check on elderly family members and neighbors who may not have adequate cooling.
Heat Builds This Week, But a Historic Heat Wave Is Looking Less Likely
The Foothills are bracing for an intense heat wave this week as a strong high-pressure ridge sweeps in, with temperatures climbing into the upper 90s. While the forecast suggests lower humidity, it’s still crucial to take precautions like staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and never leaving pets…
Dangerous Heat Building This Week as Storm Chances Shift Back to the Mountains
Prepare for a scorching heat wave as temperatures soar into the mid-90s and potentially hit 100 degrees.
Tropics Begin to Wake Up Off the Southeast Coast
After a quiet start to the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, the tropics are finally showing signs of life just off the Southeast coast. The National Hurricane Center is monitoring an area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms located near the North Carolina coast. While this is not currently a tropical cyclone, we expect a broad area…
Saturday’s Severe Thunderstorms Leave Trail of Wind Damage Across Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and Alexander Counties.
Yesterday morning, we highlighted the potential for damaging thunderstorms across the Foothills, and unfortunately, the atmosphere delivered. By around 2:15 PM, thunderstorms began developing over the mountains ahead of a mid-level disturbance moving east across western North Carolina. Initially, these were individual cells, but they quickly intensified as they encountered an increasingly unstable atmosphere. Around…
Dangerous Heat and Humidity Build. Isolated Severe Weather Sunday.
Good Saturday evening! If you’ve stepped outside today, you’ve probably noticed one thing…it’s turned downright summer-like. The heat and humidity have settled in, and that pattern isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. We’ll continue dealing with hot afternoons, muggy nights, and the daily chance for showers and thunderstorms through the rest of the weekend and into…
Severe Thunderstorms Possible Today; MCS Setup Over Next Few Days Under Ring of Fire.
Today is shaping up to be another active weather day across the Foothills and western North Carolina, with scattered showers and thunderstorms developing through the afternoon and evening. While not everyone will see severe weather, a few storms could become strong enough to produce damaging wind gusts, especially between 2 PM and midnight. Some locations…
Dangerous heat expected across the Carolinas for 4th of July Week
Good Saturday morning…by the time you are likely reading this. The major weather story developing is the anticipated heat wave that will develop across the Eastern US next week. A sprawling area of high pressure will settle in and be quite strong. Temperatures in the lower 90’s this weekend will become mid-and-upper 90’s by mid…
Showers and Storms Return: Derecho for Western NC Saturday?
Stay updated on the weather forecast for the foothills of western North Carolina. Expect scattered showers and thunderstorms starting Friday afternoon, with the potential for stronger storms on Saturday. Stay dry and prepared for the hot, muggy weather ahead.
Why Stage 2 Water Restrictions Are Still in Place — Even With Full Lakes
If you’ve looked out over Lake James or other parts of the Catawba River Basin lately, you might be scratching your head a bit.Water levels look normal. In some spots, they even look great. So why are Stage 2 water restrictions still in place? It’s a fair question — and one a lot of people…
Continued Rain Probabilities, Minimal Severe Storm Risk, and Uncertain Weekend Forecast
Monday began with widespread cloud cover, particularly persistent near the Blue Ridge. By mid-afternoon, most regions experienced a return to sunshine. The early portion of the next two days is expected to be active meteorologically. A low-pressure system over the Great Lakes will move a trailing cold front across the region early Tuesday. Widespread rainfall…
Drying Out Again Today; Better Chances of Rain This Week. Burn Ban Remains In Place
Good Sunday Afternoon. Happy late April on this gorgeous Sunday Afternoon. Some rain finally graced our area yesterday and most everyone received at least some rain. The problem is that the widespread totals above .25 of an inch were limited. This is a complex fire danger day. Most areas did not receive enough rainfall to…
FOOTHILLS WEATHER NETWORK – SATURDAY AFTERNOON WEATHER BRIEFING
Western North Carolina Foothills, Mountains, and Western Piedmont KEY MESSAGES TODAY (SATURDAY): HOT, BREEZY, AND DRY We’re seeing another summer-like day across the foothills and Piedmont. Afternoon highs will climb into the upper 80s to near 90 degrees east of the mountains. Southwest winds will pick up through the day, adding a breeze but also…
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