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FIRST ALERT: Dangerous Heat & Severe Storms Slam Tuesday
Tuesday Storm Alert: What You Need to Know (Simple Guide)
GREENVILLE, S.C. — Tuesday is a First Alert Weather Day. That means forecasters are watching the sky closely because strong storms could cause problems this afternoon and evening. A tornado warning is already active for Buncombe County until 7:00 PM.
What Is a "First Alert Weather Day"?
Think of it like a yellow traffic light:
It doesn’t mean panic — it means “Pay extra attention. Be ready to act fast if things get worse.”
What’s Happening & When
In the Mountains (Western NC)
- Storms start: Mid-afternoon
- Peak danger: Now through 8:00 PM
- Storm style: Lines of storms (not lone spinning ones)
- Main threats:
- Damaging winds (can knock down trees & power lines)
- Large hail (up to golf ball size!)
- Isolated tornado (less likely, but possible)
In the Upstate (Greenville, Spartanburg, etc.)
- Storms arrive: Around 6:00 PM
- Peak danger: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Storm style: Supercells (strong, rotating storms that move northeast)
- Main threats:
- Damaging winds
- Hail up to 2 inches wide (golf ball size)
- Tornado risk — cannot be ruled out
Bonus Danger: Extreme Heat Today
This isn’t just uncomfortable — it’s dangerous.
- Heat index: Low to mid-100s°F (some spots near 105°F)
- Heat Advisory: In effect for western Upstate & NE Georgia until 8:00 PM
- What to do:
- Limit time outside
- Drink water — even if not thirsty
- Stay in air conditioning as much as possible
- NEVER leave people or pets in a parked car — not even for a minute
Good News: Wednesday–Friday = Beautiful Break
| Day | Upstate Temps | Mountains Temps | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | Low 90s | Low 80s | Sunny, low humidity |
| Thursday | Upper 80s–Low 90s | Upper 70s–Low 80s | Sunny, comfy air |
| Friday | Upper 80s–Low 90s | Upper 70s–Low 80s | Sunny, best days out |
These are the best days to be outside all week!
Weekend: Storm Chances Return
- Saturday: More clouds, slightly more humid, small chance of storms — most stay dry
- Sunday: Higher chance of showers & thunderstorms
- Monday: Pattern continues — unsettled, storms likely
- Temps: Mild — low to mid-80s both days
Your 5-Step Safety Plan for Today
- Charge your phone — keep alerts ON
- Know your safe spot — interior room, lowest floor, no windows
- Secure loose outdoor items (trampolines, chairs, grills)
- Check on neighbors — especially elderly or those without AC
- Have multiple ways to get warnings (app, weather radio, TV)
Download the FOX Carolina Weather App for real-time alerts, radar, and forecasts.
Summary
- Today = High Alert: Severe storms + extreme heat
- Mountains: Storms now–8 PM (winds, hail, maybe tornado)
- Upstate: Storms 6–11 PM (winds, golf-ball hail, tornado possible)
- Heat Advisory until 8 PM — stay cool, hydrated, check on others
- Wed–Fri = Gorgeous — enjoy it!
- Weekend = Wet again — keep umbrella handy
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
1. What’s the difference between a Watch and a Warning?
- Watch = “Ingredients are here. Storms could form.” → Be ready.
- Warning = “It’s happening now or imminent.” → Take shelter immediately.
2. What does “golf ball size hail” actually mean?
It means hailstones about 1.75 inches wide — big enough to dent cars, break windows, and hurt people or pets caught outside.
3. Can I still go outside today?
Only if necessary. If you must:
- Go early (before storms)
- Stay near shelter
- Watch the sky & phone alerts
- Never stay in a car during a tornado warning.
4. What’s a “supercell”?
A supercell is a strong, long-lived thunderstorm with a rotating updraft. It’s the kind most likely to produce large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.
5. When will the heat go away for good?
A cold front moves through Tuesday night. Wednesday morning you’ll feel the difference — much drier, cooler air arrives and sticks around through Friday.
Stay safe. Stay informed. And don’t forget to check on each other.
— Your FOX Carolina Weather Team
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