Cherryville Storm Cleanup Ongoing, NWS Confirms Straight-Line Winds

Four Cherryville schools will remain closed on Thursday due to storm damage.

May 17, 2023

Kaitlin Wright,

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. – A state of emergency has been declared for the City of Cherryville.

Strong storms Tuesday evening caused power outages and multiple downed trees. On Wednesday, The National Weather Service confirmed a microburst also known as straight-line winds caused widespread damage in the area.

This afternoon, NWS GSP meteorologists (pictured) surveyed extensive damage in Cherryville, NC following a supercell thunderstorm Tuesday evening. The damage was ruled the result of straight-line winds of 65 to 85 mph. Details: https://t.co/PtmJ4mO01J #ncwx pic.twitter.com/HCQYy15Ia8

— NWS GSP (@NWSGSP) May 17, 2023

Gaston County Schools says Cherryville Elementary, W. Blaine Beam Intermediate, John Chavis Middle and Cherryville High will all remain closed on Thursday.

A shelter has been set up for residents at Shady Grove Baptist Church, 3240 Tryon Courthouse Road, Cherryville, NC, 28021.

Power restoration and cleanup efforts are ongoing. City officials say more than 50 structures have damage and that number is expected to increase.