A tornado watch is in effect for several counties in Eastern Carolina. The watch covers most counties north of Highway 264. The threat is caused by a line of strong to severe thunderstorms occurring ahead of a strong cold front that will move through Eastern Carolina most likely before noon. Damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 miles per hour could occur. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches, with locally higher amounts, are expected across Eastern Carolina by evening. The tornado watch is until 11 a.m.
