ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Following a tornado warning and severe thunderstorms today, thousands have been left without power, Buncombe County warned in an emergency alert.
Buncombe County issued an emergency BC Alert around 7:10 p.m., Tuesday, July 28, to report that there is “no indication that critical power infrastructure has been impacted.”
However, the alert said, thousands have been left without power, and fire marshals are conducting damage assessment.
Read our power outage coverage here.
“No water rescues were conducted, and no major damage or injuries have been declared at this time. Severe thunderstorm warning continues until 8 p.m.,” the alert concluded.
Storm passed
Previously, the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg had issued a warning that a severe thunderstorm near Mars Hill was capable of producing a tornado.
The tornado warning has been issued until 7 p.m. for southeastern Madison County to central Buncombe County. The potential hazards included a tornado and half-dollar sized hail.
“Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely,” the NWS warned about the potential impact of the storm.
The storm was first detected at 6:21 p.m. seven miles east of Marshall, moving southeast at 30 miles per hour.
Take precautions
“TAKE COVER NOW!” the NWS said. “Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.”
Report damaging winds, hail or flooding to the National Weather Service by calling 1 (800) 267-8101 or by posting on the NWS Facebook page or X, using hashtag nwsgsp. Your message should describe the event and the specific location where it occurred.