Strong Thunderstorm Warning: Cleveland, Burke, Rutherford Counties

Residents in Cleveland, Greater Burke, and Greater Rutherford counties are advised to seek shelter indoors as a strong thunderstorm is tracking through the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued a Special Weather Statement at 5:47 PM EDT, effective until 6:30 PM EDT today, September 20, 2026.

At 5:47 PM EDT, Doppler radar indicated a strong thunderstorm located 7 miles east of Morganton, near Valdese, moving southwest at 15 mph. The primary hazards associated with this storm include wind gusts up to 40 mph and half-inch hail.

Impacts from this storm could include downed tree limbs and unsecured objects being blown around. Minor hail damage to outdoor objects is also possible. If you are outdoors, the NWS recommends seeking shelter inside a building immediately.

Areas expected to be impacted include Morganton, Valdese, Drexel, Connelly Springs, Rutherford College, Casar, South Mountains State Park, Icard, Lake Rhodhiss, and Belwood.