Charlotte Faces Overnight Storms, Cooldown On The Way

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

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Charlotte Faces Overnight Storms, Cooldown on the Way

Charlotte residents braced for a night of severe weather as a powerful storm system moved through the region Monday evening. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas, cautioning residents about the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall. The storm, part of a larger weather system sweeping across the Southeast, brought with it the promise of a much-needed cooldown after days of oppressive heat and humidity.

<h3>Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued</h3>

The NWS warning, issued shortly after 8 PM Monday, urged residents to seek shelter immediately. "Damaging winds and large hail are likely," the warning stated. Reports of downed trees and power outages began surfacing on social media almost immediately following the warning's issuance. Local emergency services reported increased call volume related to weather-related incidents. The storm's intensity was expected to peak between 9 PM and midnight, before gradually weakening.

<h3>Power Outages and Road Closures</h3>

Duke Energy reported widespread power outages across the city, affecting thousands of homes and businesses. Their website showed a real-time map tracking outages and estimated restoration times, although some areas faced longer wait times due to the severity of the damage. Several roads were also closed due to downed power lines and debris, causing significant traffic delays. Drivers were urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. The Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) provided updates via their social media channels.

<h3>Welcome Relief: Cooler Temperatures Ahead</h3>

While the overnight storms presented immediate challenges, they also brought the promise of much cooler temperatures. The NWS forecast predicted a significant drop in temperatures for Tuesday and beyond, with highs expected to be in the low to mid-70s Fahrenheit – a welcome change from the recent heatwave which had pushed temperatures into the 90s. The cooler air is expected to linger for several days, offering a respite from the oppressive humidity. This cooler weather is expected to be a result of a strong cold front moving through the region in the wake of the storm system.

<h3>Safety Tips for Severe Weather</h3>

Remember to stay informed about severe weather by monitoring your local news and the National Weather Service website. Here are some essential safety tips to follow during a thunderstorm:

• Seek shelter immediately: Move to a sturdy building or basement when a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.
• Avoid contact with water: Stay away from pools, lakes, and other bodies of water during a thunderstorm.
• Unplug electronics: Power surges can damage electronic equipment during a thunderstorm.
• Stay away from windows: Avoid standing near windows during a severe thunderstorm.
• Be aware of downed power lines: Never approach a downed power line; report it immediately to your local power company.

This severe weather event serves as a reminder to stay prepared for the unpredictable nature of storms and to always heed warnings from the National Weather Service. Stay safe, Charlotte! Check back for further updates as the situation develops. For the latest weather information, visit the .