Franklin’s council unanimously approved a one‑year moratorium on new data centers after a packed hearing, citing zoning gaps and worries about water, power and noise.

A federal review finds North Carolina behind on special education: slow evaluations, staffing holes and a push to study weighted funding.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely Sunday afternoon into Monday in Charlotte, with brief heavy downpours and localized flooding possible.

CMPD posted a short alert about an 'assault with a deadly weapon' in the Eastway Division; detectives released no location or suspect details and are asking for tips.

Livingstone College mourns sophomore Gabriella Muñoz after her death on Friday. The school praised her academics while details about the death remain limited.

An assault near the Briar Creek exit on I‑74 left multiple people with life‑threatening injuries, CMPD says. Detectives are investigating.

A fast-moving line of severe storms prompted an NWS warning across central North Carolina Friday, with quarter‑size hail and gusts up to 70 mph expected.

UNC Health has acquired Westgate Shopping Center and filed to build a 92‑bed hospital in West Asheville. Public records and state filings show the system is positioning for a major medical campus.

A Southport jumper survived a catastrophic July 5 fall and is beginning recovery after emergency surgery and a medevac. The local jumping community and donors have rallied to help.

Two people were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries after a Friday night shooting near North Tryon and Matheson; police have not named suspects.

Concord’s emergency account warned Friday of a severe thunderstorm covering the city and Charlotte‑Douglas Airport through 4 p.m. EDT. Officials urged residents to shelter and avoid flooded roads.

Tim and Susan Johnson are converting the former Phil Aull studio at 215 Providence Road into Crescent Grounds Coffee — a porch‑facing shop overlooking Colonial Park that will open with pastries and specialty drinks.

Hot and humid Saturday with scattered afternoon storms possible; heavier rounds may arrive Sunday night into Monday with localized flood risk.