Tornado Asheville: Severe Weather Alerts & Radar Tracking July 28, 2026

Tuesday, July 28, 2026, brought a heightened risk of severe thunderstorms across the Carolinas, including the Asheville region and the Triad. The primary threats included damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, isolated tornadoes, and large hail exceeding one inch in diameter. For residents in Buncombe and Madison counties, a tornado warning was issued, underscoring the need for real-time weather awareness.

Interactive radar technology has become an essential tool for tracking these fast-moving storms. WBTV's interactive radar allows users to change map layers, view past and future radar loops, and go full screen — giving you a granular view of where the storms are and where they're heading. This is particularly valuable during the afternoon and evening hours when storms were expected to peak, potentially impacting the evening commute.

Understanding the Severe Weather Risk

Meteorologists from WBTV's First Alert team highlighted that damaging winds were the biggest concern, with gusts over 60 mph possible. An isolated tornado could not be ruled out, and large hail over one inch in diameter was also a hazard. The storms were most likely to affect the region in the mid-to-late afternoon, moving across the Charlotte area and spreading eastward. While the Triad and Asheville areas were under the same broad risk, the tornado warning for Buncombe and Madison counties was the most direct alert for the Asheville metro.

For those in the path, staying informed is critical. The interactive radar from WBTV provides a live feed that can be customized to show precipitation intensity, storm motion, and future radar projections. This allows you to see not just where rain is falling, but where the most intense cells are developing.

Safety Precautions During Severe Weather

When severe weather strikes, the aftermath can be as dangerous as the storm itself. Duke Energy offers clear guidance: stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Treat all power lines — as well as trees, limbs, and anything else in contact with them — as energized and dangerous. Report any power line hazards immediately to local authorities or the utility company.

If you are indoors during a tornado warning, move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. If you are driving, do not try to outrun a tornado; instead, find a sturdy shelter or lie flat in a low-lying area, covering your head.

What to Expect After the Storms

The remainder of the week was forecast to be dry, offering a reprieve before storm chances return over the weekend. This pattern is typical for late July in the Carolinas, where afternoon heat and humidity often fuel thunderstorms. For those who experienced damage or power outages, the dry spell will aid recovery efforts. As of the latest reports, no confirmed tornado touchdowns or specific damage reports have been documented.

For ongoing updates, check the latest First Alert Weather forecast for your area. And remember, the interactive radar is your best tool for staying ahead of the next round of storms.