Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Northeastern Swain County until 9 PM EDT

SWAIN COUNTY, NC – A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for northeastern Swain County, North Carolina, by the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg. The warning is in effect immediately and will expire at 9:00 PM EDT on September 18.

Residents in the affected area, including Smoky Mountains-Deep Creek, Smoky Mountains-Newfound Gap, Smoky Mountains-Oconaluftee, Smoky Mountains-Kuwohi, Cherokee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smoky Mountains-Balsam Mountain, and B.R. Parkway-Smoky Mountains To Balsam Gap, should seek shelter immediately. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building for your protection.

As of 8:07 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles southeast of Gatlinburg, or near Smoky Mountains-Newfound Gap, moving south at 15 mph. This storm is capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail, according to radar indications. Minor hail damage to vehicles is expected, and wind damage to trees and power lines is possible.

The National Weather Service encourages the public to report any damaging winds, hail, or flooding. You can do so by calling toll-free at 1-800-267-8101, posting on their Facebook page, or using the hashtag #nwsgsp on X. Please include a description of the event and its specific location.