Here is the updated severe threat and timing. The timing has been adjusted slightly (mainly in the NW where an acceleration of the line has begun). The main threat for our area will be damaging winds up to 70 mph and the possibility of tornado’s.

Remember the timeline is a guideline of when you need to be most prepared for severe weather. Stay aware to the latest threats throughout the morning/afternoon.

The extremely heavy rainfall could lead to travel problems with roads flooding and vehicles hydroplaning; it could also lead to flooding and rising waters in area creeks, streams, rivers and of course along the banks of the lake. Homeowners in flood prone areas are encouraged to take action, and take all the necessary steps to secure your property.

Should weather conditions a danger we want to make sure everyone is aware of the locations of every storm shelter and place to seek refuge across the county.  That list includes:

*Cherokee County Courthouse Basement – 100 Main Street in Centre.
*Centre First Baptist Church Basement – 373 East Main Street in Centre
*Cherokee Health & Rehab – 199 Dean Buttram Senior Avenue (Mass Care and Sheltering)
*Recreational Outreach Center – 300 East Bypass (Mass Care and Sheltering)
*Leesburg FEMA Building – 211 Industrial Boulevard (Tornado Shelter)
*Sand Rock Community Shelter – 2005 Sand Rock Avenue (Tornado Shelter)
*The New Bethel Baptist Church Community Storm Shelter – 9545 U.S. Highway 411 North (Tornado Shelter)
*Cedar Bluff Community Center – 3413 Old Highway 9

The Cherokee County Health & Rehab Activity Building and Recreational Outreach Center are used in events such as an evacuation and any need to shelter a large number of people.  The three approved Tornado Shelters and the basement at the courthouse will be opened IF a Tornado Watch is issued.  The Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency will work with the officials in Cedar Bluff and the First Baptist Church in Centre to be certain those facilities are opened as well.

You can also sign up for instant weather alerts from WEIS Radio by texting the keyword WEATHER1 to 77000, or tune to WEIS Radio 100.5FM and 990AM for up to date weather information.