Gusty Storms Target North-Central U.S., North Carolina

North Carolina and eastern Tennessee along with the North-Central U.S. will be the main focus for severe weather today.

In the North-Central U.S., an approaching cold front along with moderate instability aloft will help trigger thunderstorms today. In addition, ample moisture is in place and gusty winds are present aloft, aiding in severe weather development. The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, for central Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, southwestern Minnesota and far northwestern Iowa. Cities under the risk area include North Platte and Norfolk, Neb., Sioux City, Iowa, Sioux Falls, Watertown and Mitchell, S.D. and Fergus Falls, Marshall and Worthington, Minn. Here, isolated tornadoes, damaging wind gusts and hail larger than quarters will be possible.

Out east, a separate severe weather threat is present for eastern Tennessee and western and central North Carolina. An approaching cold front will help trigger activity with moderate instability, warm temperatures and a soupy atmosphere contributing to thunderstorms forming. The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, which includes Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tenn., Spartanburg, S.C., Bristol, Va., Dalton, Ga. and Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Durham and Raleigh, N.C. Damaging wind gusts will be the primary concern.

Be sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means that the conditions are in place to possibly produce severe weather, while a warning indicates that those conditions are currently occurring. Be sure to have multiple ways to receive warnings, as storms will be occurring late tonight. Also, take caution if you are outdoors during a thunderstorm. Remember, “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”