he damage from Friday’s storms was not widespread, but it was enough to have a huge impact on people's homes and events happening around Charlotte.
Dozens had to take cover during a charity event in Myers Park.
(Watch Eyewitness News below)
“This is a big event. Rain is not going to stop it,” Raymond Verdree said.
For the 16th year in a row, cyclists are riding around Myers Park to raise money to fight cancer.
But before 24 Hours of Booty kicked off, organizers had to change gears and evacuate Bootyville due to the severe weather.
Tents flipped over and the bikers took shelter in a gymnasium.
“It was a great atmosphere considering what is going on here,” Verdree said.
There was no major damage despite the brief scare.
Organizers said they are prepared to battle whatever weather comes their way because the fight against cancer is more important.
“This is definitely not our first rodeo,” said Interim Executive Director Brittany Wilson. “This is our 16th year and we have gotten better. Safety is definitely our No. 1 priority.”
The powerful storm system changed a lot of plans for Charlotte residents.
In east Charlotte, on Commonwealth Avenue near Oakhurst, an aging oak tree with more dead limbs than foliage fell onto power lines scattering debris in the road and on top of three cars.
“The trees behind my house were rocking and rolling,” Steve Haigler said.
Four miles away, on Gladstone Lane, a family is thankful to be alive after a tree came crashing down on their home.
Nicole Fletcher's son and mom were inside at the time and are thankful they are OK.
“It scared the bejesus out of them,” Fletcher said. “They said it sounded like a train had come through the house.”
Power outages
Duke Energy has reported 2,000 power outages in Cleveland County, while more than 1,200 customers have lost power in Mecklenburg County.
Severe weather updates
5:32 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Union and Cabarrus counties until 6 p.m.
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5:27 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Anson and Stanly until 6:45 p.m.
5:13 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Iredell and Rowan counties until 6 p.m.
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4:28 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Lancaster County in South Carolina until 5:15 p.m.
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4:23 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for York County in South Carolina until 5:30 p.m.
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4:23 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, Lincoln and Union counties until 5:30 p.m.
3:57 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Cleveland, Gaston and Lincoln counties until 4:45 p.m.
3:57 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Chester and York counties in South Carolina until 4:45 p.m.
Calm after the storm
Once the storm passes early Saturday, skies will start to clear out, a gusty northwest breeze will kick up and the cooler and drier air will pour in.
A lingering shower will be possible Saturday morning, but will quickly clear by lunchtime. Highs will stay in the middle 80s both Saturday and Sunday, with low humidity and comfortable conditions.
Weather resources:
Cox Media Group
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