Carolinas Severe Weather Threat Thursday

news image
Special Stories
18 Mar 2021 7:00 AM
A strong low pressure system spawned tornadoes and severe weather across the Deep South over the last 24 hours. This storm system will provide a risk for severe thunderstorms once again today (Thursday). The Storm Prediction Center has shrunk the enhanced for severe storms because based on the latest track, as the system is moving quicker than our earlier forecast models.   This means that the front will be in the Atlantic Ocean quicker and therefore less opportunity to tap into daytime heating for severe storms. A Tornado Watch is in effect for central North Carolina through 9 PM ET.

Tornado Potential

Supercells are possible with the potential for isolated, but significant tornadoes. Impressive wind shear (wind direction changing with height) is forecast to be present, sustaining severe thunderstorms and aiding in tornado development. As the evening progresses, the tornado threat is really concentrated into central North Carolina.  

Wind and Hail Threat

  Damaging wind gusts, greater than 58 mph, are the biggest threat on Thursday. Large hail is also a concern, greater than 1" in diameter.

Forecast

Storms will continue to move east this evening, finally pushing offshore by midnight ET. Heavy rain is expected from DC through the Carolinas, but the severe threat will be focused south of Virgina.      

Rainfall and Flooding

The forecast not only includes severe thunderstorm chances, but also soaking rainfall.  Flooding is a concern for areas that see multiple lines of thunderstorms. WeatherNation will keep you updated on the potential for severe thunderstorms across the Southeast.
All Weather News
More
Ways To Help Texas Flood Victims

Ways To Help Texas Flood Victims

TEXAS - The death toll has risen to 104 in Te

8 Jul 2025 3:05 AM
Dangerous Heat Building Out West

Dangerous Heat Building Out West

WEST - Heat alerts have been issued across th

8 Jul 2025 3:03 AM
Hot Weather Brings a Shot at Storms Out East

Hot Weather Brings a Shot at Storms Out East

EAST - Hot temperatures continue out east as

8 Jul 2025 2:50 AM
Plains Storms Move South Through Tuesday

Plains Storms Move South Through Tuesday

Severe storms brought damaging winds and hail

8 Jul 2025 2:40 AM
Severe Storms Continue In Northern Plains This Week

Severe Storms Continue In Northern Plains This Week

A frontal boundary, trough, and an unstable a

8 Jul 2025 1:00 AM
Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Tropical Storm Chantal formed Saturday mornin

7 Jul 2025 4:50 PM
Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Following the prolific start to the season, t

7 Jul 2025 12:15 AM