Tornado warning issued for Cleveland county, take shelter now

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A tornado warning has been issued for Cleveland County. Take shelter immediately. 

You should stay weather aware this weekend because First Warn Meteorologist Brad Panovich says it’s going to be stormy and wet.

“It won’t rain the whole time, but there will be waves of rain and storms,” he said. “I would say Saturday likely more rainy and then late Sunday more stormy.”

Panovich said the severe weather outlook ranges from low to medium, with a large portion of the viewing area in the medium range.

“Heavy rain is our biggest issue but any sunshine could lead to strong to severe storms,” he said.

Rain chances will exponentially increase heading into Saturday afternoon, according to meteorologist Chris Mulcahy. 

“Expect a cloudy and wet afternoon with a few thunderstorms embedded in the widespread rain. Highs will only reach the mid 70’s,” he said.

There will be a lull in the rain overnight into Sunday morning, with a chance to stay dry for the first half of the day.

“Once the front arrives on Sunday afternoon, we are looking at a moderate potential for strong to severe storms,” said Mulcahy. “Damaging winds and heavy rain will be the main threats. With all of the rain we will see Saturday followed by downpours Sunday, flash flooding is at its highest on Sunday.”

Morning is the best time of day for any Mother’s Day plans. There is a chance for a few spotty showers, but most of the heavy rain and threatening weather will be an afternoon event.