UPDATE: Tornado warning affecting Catawba County Friday evening - seek safe shelter

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The NWS Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued an updated tornado warning at 7:12 p.m. on Friday in effect until 7:30 p.m. for Catawba County.

"At 7:11 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 7 miles southwest of Hickory, or near Mountain View, moving northeast at 35 mph," states the NWS. "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 tornado is projected to possibly affect Hickory, St. Stephens, Conover, and Mountain View around 7:20 p.m.

Other locations impacted by this tornadic thunderstorm include Propst and Startown.

Recommended action: Seek shelter

The NWS adds, "Take cover now! 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."

This warning is in effect until 7:30 p.m.

Ways to protect yourself during a tornado

According to the NWS, rapid action is key to staying safe during a tornado. Stay updated on tornado watches and warnings by tuning in to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.

• If you are indoors: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget pets if time allows.
• If you are at your workplace or school: Comply with your tornado drill procedures and head to the designated tornado shelter area. Steer clear of windows and avoid large open spaces like cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
• If you are outside: If a tornado is on its way, seek shelter inside a solid building immediately. Sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe places to be.
• If you are in a vehicle: Being inside a vehicle during a tornado is not a safe option. Drive towards the closest shelter. If reaching a safe shelter is not possible, either crouch down in your car and shield your head, or leave your vehicle and find shelter in a ditch or ravine.

Is your emergency kit prepared in case of a tornado?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supplies kit:

• Water, one gallon per person for at least three days
• Food, at least a three-day supply
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Whistle
• Dust mask to filter contaminated air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape, for shelter purposes
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published July 10, 2026 at 7:05 PM.