Severe Storms, High Winds, Tornadoes Possible for Monday, March 16, 2026

Cherryville, NC (WNN) - The National Weather Service is forecasting severe thunderstorms on Monday, March 16, 2026, across much of the southeast, including the North Carolina Piedmont region.

Severe Weather Forecast

The Charlotte metropolitan area is currently under an Enhanced Risk for severe weather, while the Raleigh region faces a more significant Moderate Risk. Both risks indicated a widespread outbreak of severe storms, including the possibility of strong tornadoes and damaging winds.

Storm Prediction Center Outlook for March 16, 2026

National Weather Service

According to the latest outlook from the Storm Prediction Center (SPC):
"Widespread severe storms are anticipated on Monday across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic States. Tornadoes, some strong and particularly damaging winds, are most likely in parts of South Carolina and Maryland during the afternoon."

Main Hazards

Residents should be prepared for several weather threats:

• Damaging winds: Strong wind gusts could bring down trees and power lines, leading to scattered power outages.
• Tornadoes: Some storms may produce tornadoes, some of which could reach EF-2 strength.
• Large hail: Isolated thunderstorms may produce hail large enough to damage vehicles and property.

Tornado Safety PSA

For a tornado to form, several atmospheric conditions must come together. An unstable atmosphere with strong vertical wind shear will help the storm rotate.

While not every community will experience severe weather, it is important to be prepared if a tornado watch/warning is issued.

If a warning is issued in your area:

• Get down to ground level. You want to be in a basement or near something sturdy enough to keep you safe.
• Stay away from windows, as debris from the storm can cause them to shatter.
• Avoid seeking shelter in vehicles. Your vehicle will get picked up if the winds are strong enough.

Tornado Safe Places

National Weather Service

Stay up to date with weather alerts via local news updates, HAM radio, or phone alerts. Residents across the Piedmont area should monitor forecasts closely as conditions evolve throughout the day on Monday.

For further WNN articles and news stories, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com.

For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork

Contact WNN at newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com

North Carolina Press Association Member