Labor Day Weekend Weather Alert: Storms Could Disrupt Plans Across North Carolina

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — After a stretch of sunshine, North Carolina residents are being warned to prepare for thunderstorms that could disrupt Labor Day weekend travel and outdoor gatherings.

Storms Expected Saturday Evening

According to the National Weather Service, Charlotte will stay partly sunny Thursday with highs near 81°F, followed by another warm, dry day Friday topping out at 84°F. However, by Saturday after 5 p.m., storm chances climb to 30 percent, bringing risks of brief downpours, gusty winds, and slick roads across Mecklenburg County.

Communities in central and western North Carolina, including Gastonia and Concord, may also see isolated storms spread through Saturday evening.

Sunday Brings Another Round of Thunderstorms

On Sunday afternoon, forecasters expect another 30 percent chance of storms, especially after 4 p.m. Conditions should improve by late evening as skies begin to clear. Residents planning cookouts, lake trips, or road travel are urged to keep weather alerts on hand and move indoors quickly at the first sound of thunder.

Highs will hover in the upper 70s to low 80s through the weekend, while overnight lows remain mild in the low to mid-60s.

Holiday Monday Offers Relief

Labor Day Monday is expected to bring a break from unsettled weather, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 78°F. The calmer conditions will continue into Tuesday, providing safer travel for those returning from holiday trips.

Safety Preparations

Officials remind residents to secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and be prepared for possible power disruptions with stronger storm cells. While widespread outages are not expected, forecasters warn that localized impacts could still occur.

Five-Day Charlotte Forecast

• Thursday: Partly sunny, high 81°F, calm winds
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high 84°F, light winds
• Saturday: Storm chance after 5 p.m., high 81°F
• Sunday: Afternoon storms possible, high 78°F, tapering at night
• Labor Day Monday: Mostly sunny, high 78°F, low near 61°F

As one of the busiest travel weekends of the year approaches, officials encourage travelers to plan ahead for potential delays on major routes, including I-77 and I-85.

Are you changing your Labor Day weekend plans due to the storm forecast, or will you stick with your outdoor activities? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.