Raleigh, NC – A tornado watch covering parts of Virginia and North Carolina remains in effect until 2 p.m. Monday as severe storms move through the region.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 66 includes portions of central North Carolina and central Virginia, where conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes.
Forecasters warn that several tornadoes are possible, including a couple that could become intense, as a fast-moving line of storms sweeps east through the area during the late morning and early afternoon hours.
The storms may also bring widespread damaging wind gusts, with isolated gusts reaching up to 85 mph. Large hail up to 1 inch in diameter is also possible in stronger storms.
Meteorologists say the primary threat will come from a rapidly moving line of severe thunderstorms pushing across the watch area. These storms could quickly produce damaging winds or brief tornadoes as they track east.
The watch area generally extends along and about 60 miles east and west of a line from near White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, to south of Southern Pines, North Carolina, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
A tornado watch means atmospheric conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, but tornadoes are not yet confirmed. Residents should remain alert for possible warnings if storms begin producing rotation or dangerous winds.
Officials encourage people in the watch area to monitor weather alerts, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and be prepared to seek shelter quickly if a warning is issued.
Morning storms could also create hazardous travel conditions for commuters and students, especially during periods of heavy rain and strong wind.
Additional watches and warnings may be issued as storms continue moving across the Mid-Atlantic throughout the day.
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