Rowan County Emergency Services

08/12/2026

0945 FINAL UPDATE: Emergency responders have completed operations at the Macy’s Distribution Center in China Grove following the reported bomb threat earlier today.

After an extensive and methodical investigation by specialized bomb squad personnel and Explosive Detection K-9 teams, responders have cleared the scene and the incident is considered concluded. There is no ongoing threat to the community, and no further protective actions are necessary.

The precautionary notifications previously issued for residents, businesses, and facilities within the 1/2-mile area are no longer in effect.

We sincerely appreciate the patience and cooperation of our community throughout this extended response. We also thank the numerous local and regional public safety agencies that provided personnel, specialized resources, and support throughout the investigation.

Unless additional information becomes necessary, this will be the final update regarding this incident.
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0815 UPDATE: Emergency responders continue to work through the investigative process at the Macy's Distribution Center in China Grove. Specialized bomb squad personnel are conducting a thorough and methodical examination of items within the facility to ensure the safety of employees, responders, and the community. This process is time-intensive and is expected to continue for an extended period.

There is no change to the current protective actions. Residents and businesses within the notified 1/2-mile area should remain alert and continue to monitor official communications. No evacuation has been ordered at this time. Should conditions warrant additional protective actions, including evacuation, affected individuals will be notified immediately through official channels.

We appreciate the public's patience as responders work carefully to complete this investigation safely and thoroughly.
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PUBLIC INFORMATION RELEASE

Bomb Threat Investigation – Macy’s Distribution Center, China Grove

Emergency responders are actively investigating a reported bomb threat at the Macy’s Distribution Center in China Grove. Multiple Bomb Squad and Explosive Detection K-9 teams from regional partner agencies are assisting on scene, including resources from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Guilford County, Piedmont Triad, Cabarrus County, Rowan County, and other supporting agencies.

As a precaution, emergency notification messages are being distributed to residents, businesses, and facilities within a one-half mile radius of the incident location. Individuals within this area are encouraged to remain alert, monitor official communications, and be prepared to follow instructions from emergency personnel should conditions change.

At this time, no evacuation order has been issued. If an evacuation becomes necessary, affected individuals will be notified immediately through official emergency notification systems and public safety channels.

Emergency management and public safety officials are actively coordinating with the Rowan-Salisbury School System regarding Carson High School and will continue working closely with school administrators to ensure the safety of students, staff, and the community.

The investigation remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Please do not call 911 for information unless you have an emergency. Continue to monitor official public safety and government communication channels for updates.

China Grove Fire Rowan County NCRowan County Sheriff's Office Bostian Heights Fire Department Rowan-Salisbury Schools Town of China Grove

08/11/2026

Update:

Severe Thunderstorm Warning
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
427 PM EDT Tue Aug 11 2026

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
Davie County in the Piedmont of North Carolina...
Northeastern Iredell County in the Piedmont of North Carolina...
Northwestern Rowan County in the Piedmont of North Carolina...

* Until 530 PM EDT.

* At 427 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 7 miles west of Mocksville, or 5 miles southeast of Harmony, moving south at 15
mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Minor hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind
Damage to trees and power lines.

* Locations impacted include...
Statesville, Mocksville, Spencer, Troutman, Cooleemee, Cleveland,
Harmony, Fork Church, Turnersburg, and Olin.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

HAIL THREAT...RADAR INDICATED
MAX HAIL SIZE...1.00 IN
WIND THREAT...RADAR INDICATED
MAX WIND GUST...60 MPH

__________________________________________________________________
A few strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible late this afternoon into this evening across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia. Damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph will be the main threat, with the greatest concern across the NC mountains, foothills, and Piedmont.

⏰ Timing: 5 PM–Midnight

08/10/2026

🔥 Back to School = Back to Routines! 🎒✏️

As our students head back to school, mornings can get a little hectic. Between backpacks, lunches, coffee, and getting everyone out the door on time, fire safety can easily get lost in the rush.

Before you leave home, take a few extra seconds for a quick check:
🔥 Make sure the stove and oven are OFF.
☕ Turn off coffee makers and small appliances.
🔌 Unplug appliances when appropriate.
🚪 Make sure everyone knows how to get out safely in an emergency.

And for families with children who may be home alone before or after school, now is a great time to review the basics with them: know what the smoke alarm sounds like, know two ways out, know your address, and know when to call 911.

A new school year brings new routines and new responsibilities. Building good habits today helps create safer tomorrows.

Have a safe and GREAT school year, Rowan County! ❤️📚

08/10/2026

⚠️ SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING – SOUTHEASTERN ROWAN COUNTY ⚠️

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 9:15 PM for southeastern Rowan County.

This storm is capable of producing:

* 💨 Wind gusts up to 60 mph
* 🧊 Penny-size hail
* 🌳 Potential damage to trees and power lines

Locations impacted include: Salisbury, China Grove, Spencer, Landis, Granite Quarry, Rockwell, Faith, Gold Hill, and High Rock Lake.

➡️ Take action now: Move indoors and stay away from windows. Secure loose outdoor items if it is safe to do so. Be prepared for possible downed trees, power lines, and power outages.

📱 Continue to monitor weather alerts and have multiple ways to receive warnings.

Stay weather aware and .

08/05/2026

One thing is always certain: every week, we are asked what exactly "Emergency Management" is and what Emergency Managers do.

Check out the video below for a glimpse into the life of...

07/31/2026

* Promotion Announcement *

ROWAN COUNTY, NC — Rowan County Emergency Services has promoted Heather Hewitt to the position of EMS Division Chief, recognizing more than 20 years of dedicated service,
progressive leadership, and commitment to excellence in emergency medical services.

Chief Hewitt's career with Rowan County EMS began as an EMT-Intermediate and has been defined by continuous professional growth and service to the community. Throughout her
tenure, she has advanced through the ranks of Paramedic, Preceptor, Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief, earning a reputation as a respected leader, mentor, and advocate for
both operational excellence and employee development.

As Battalion Chief, Hewitt has provided leadership for countywide EMS operations, overseeing personnel, emergency response activities, training initiatives, resource management, and organizational readiness. She has played a key role in maintaining high standards of patient care while fostering accountability, professionalism, and teamwork throughout the organization.

In addition to her operational responsibilities, Hewitt has been a strong advocate for employee wellness, mental health awareness, and responder resilience. As a Peer Support Specialist, she has worked to ensure that employees have access to resources and support systems that promote both personal well-being and professional success. Her commitment to creating a healthy and supportive work environment has contributed significantly to the
culture of Rowan County EMS.

In her new role as EMS Division Chief, Hewitt will lead the county's Emergency Medical Services Division, providing direction for EMS operations, personnel development, clinical excellence, system readiness, and service delivery. She will continue working closely with agency leadership, community partners, and field personnel to ensure Rowan County residents receive high-quality emergency medical care.

"Heather's promotion reflects a career built on dedication, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to serving both our employees and the citizens of Rowan County," said Emergency Services Chief TJ Brown. "Her experience, leadership ability, and passion for EMS make her exceptionally qualified to lead our EMS Division into the future."

Chief Hewitt holds numerous professional certifications in emergency medical services, leadership, incident management, safety, peer support, and critical incident stress management. She has also completed the EMS Management Institute through the University of North Carolina Charlotte and has remained committed to professional development throughout her career.

Outside of her career, Heather is a proud wife, mother of two, and excited soon-to-be grandmother.

Rowan County NC

07/30/2026

Each day, our emergency services community—from law enforcement and the fire service to emergency management and EMS—works to strengthen the relationships we share, not only with one another but also with valued partners like our local school system.

Today was no exception as we came together to train for active assailant scenarios. It's training no one ever wants to need, but it's training we know is essential. By working together, communicating, and practicing as one team, we're better prepared to protect and serve our community if the unthinkable ever happens.

Preparedness begins long before an emergency. It begins with partnership.

Town of Granite Quarry, North Carolina - Government Rowan County Sheriff's OfficeSalisbury Police DepartmentRowan-Salisbury Schools Town of Cleveland, North Carolina

07/23/2026

🌧️ Weather Update | Heavy Rain & Flooding Potential Today and Friday 🌧️

The National Weather Service is monitoring a significant heavy rainfall event that will impact much of western North Carolina, including our region.

What to Expect:
🌧️ Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms today through Friday.

💧 Widespread rainfall totals of 1–3 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 5 inches.

⚠️ The greatest threat is flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas, locations with poor drainage, and near creeks and streams.

⛈️ At this time, no significant severe thunderstorm threat is expected, with flooding being the primary concern.

Flood Watch
A Flood Watch is in effect through 8:00 PM today and may be extended or expanded depending on how conditions develop.

Safety Reminders
🚗 Never drive through flooded roadways. It only takes a small amount of moving water to sweep away a vehicle.

🏠 Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.

📱 Monitor trusted weather sources throughout the day, as additional watches or warnings may be issued with little notice.

Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Your destination can wait—your safety cannot.

07/13/2026

Drive with Caution 🚧

US National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC has issued a Flood Advisory for SW Rowan.

Bostian Heights Fire Department China Grove Fire Atwell Fire DepartmentRockwell Fire DepartmentEnochville Fire & Rescue Town of Landis West Rowan VFD

07/02/2026

🎇 A few moments of fun should never lead to a lifetime of regret.

As we celebrate Independence Day with family and friends, please take a few minutes to watch this short but powerful video. It serves as an important reminder that even something as common as a sparkler can cause life-changing injuries.

Sparklers burn at temperatures of more than 2,000°F—hot enough to melt some metals and cause severe burns in an instant. They are often placed in the hands of children because they seem harmless, but the risks are very real.

🎥 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/a7R4wuklG14?is=8SF83Qgs4Z2CxbHk

This holiday, we encourage everyone to make safety part of the celebration:
🇺🇸 Leave fireworks to the professionals whenever possible.
👀 Keep a close eye on children around any fireworks.
🧯 Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
❤️ Take a moment to protect the people who matter most.

One simple decision can make all the difference.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Sparklers seem harmless. They're fun. They're festive. But they bur...