A powerful weather system is sweeping across the eastern U.S., prompting an urgent thunderstorm warning for western New York and a broader tornado alert for the Tri-State Area and beyond—including areas as far south as Charlotte, North Carolina, and Richmond, Virginia.
Current Threat Zones:
- The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a thunderstorm warning for Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, and Wyoming counties in New York.
- A tornado alert is in effect across western New York and neighboring regions—including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and parts of Virginia and North Carolina.
Weather officials are warning that while the chance of a tornado forming remains low, conditions are volatile enough to justify maximum caution. These alerts follow Doppler radar scans showing fast-moving cells and unstable atmospheric conditions.
“The storm that prompted the warning has weakened below severe levels and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property,” the NWS announced. “However, new storms may develop rapidly.”
Lightning Safety: How to Protect Yourself During Thunderstorms
Lightning is no small threat. With over 25 million strikes per year in the U.S. alone, and an average of 20 deaths annually, it’s vital to take precautions—especially with active storms forecasted in Charlotte, Richmond, and surrounding regions.
Before & During the Storm:
- Have a backup power source and shelter plan ready.
- If thunder roars, go indoors—you’re close enough to be struck.
- Avoid open spaces, water, and elevated areas.
Indoors Safety Tips:
- Don’t use corded phones or plug-in devices.
- Avoid sinks, bathtubs, and plumbing.
- Stay away from windows and doors—lightning can travel through wiring.
Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before going back outside. Even clear skies may not mean it’s safe.
Caught Outside? What You Need to Do
If you’re in a park, hiking trail, or even tailgating before a game in Charlotte or Richmond and can’t get indoors, here are critical steps:
- Avoid peaks, hills, and isolated trees.
- Seek shelter in a low area like a ravine or ditch.
- Stay away from metal structures, fences, and wet gear.
- Spread out if you’re with a group—lightning can jump between people.
Driving Through the Storm? Essential Rain Safety Tips
With the storm expected to drop heavy rain and reduce visibility, especially on Interstates 77, 85, and 64, here’s how to stay safe:
- Avoid low-lying roads, underpasses, and known flood zones.
- Increase following distance to allow more braking time.
- Slow down gradually—do not brake suddenly on wet roads.
- Use headlights and avoid cruise control during rainfall.
- Be alert for debris, stalled vehicles, or fallen power lines.
If rain becomes too heavy to see, pull over safely to a rest stop or well-lit area. Keep hazard lights on until the storm eases.
Stay Alert, Stay Ready
Whether you’re in western New York, the Tri-State Area, or cities like Charlotte and Richmond, dangerous weather can strike with little notice.
Monitor local forecasts, enable emergency alerts on your phone, and have a plan to shelter quickly. Following these steps could save your life or someone else’s.
