UNIONVILLE, N.C. (March 5, 2025)– Following a thorough assessment of damage by Union County Emergency Management and the U.S. National Weather Service, the U.S. National Weather Service has confirmed an EF1 tornado touched down in the Unionville area on Wednesday, March 5. The storm caused moderate damage in the Porter Ridge area, with estimated maximum speeds at 90 miles per hour, resulting in structural damage and approximately 1,700 power outages. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Officials from the National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg along with Emergency Management have surveyed the impacted area, documenting damage and collecting data to further record and assess the storm’s impact.
"Based on our assessment, we have confirmed an EF-1 tornado with peak winds of approximately 90 mph in the Unionville area," said Trisha Palmer, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg. "Tornadoes of this strength can cause downed trees and damage to siding and roofs.”
Emergency Management Director Andrew Ansley opened the County's Emergency Operations Center, where County officials continued to monitor weather conditions and direct the County's response efforts.
"We appreciate the swift response of the National Weather Service and numerous public safety agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to surveying damage," said Ansley. "We are thankful no one was hurt in this weather event."
Residents can stay informed by signing up for UC Alerts at ucgov.info/ucalerts to ensure they receive future emergency notifications, including automatic severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
As we continue
Severe Weather Preparedness Week, this event serves as a reminder to have a plan for severe weather. The National Weather Service provides a
helpful guide to understanding tornado alerts on their website. Remember, if a tornado warning is issued:
- Seek shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows.
- Get to the lowest level, preferably in an interior room or basement.
- Avoid vehicles and mobile homes, which offer little protection.
Stay safe and remain weather-aware.
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