RALEIGH --  It is expected to be storm day Wednesday over much of eastern and central North Carolina. Residents are advised to closely monitor weather forecasts and follow direction from emergency officials as severe thunderstorms and strong winds move through the state throughout the day.

Approximately four dozen public school systems and three universities already have announced early dismissal (see latest listing below). Be sure to monitor local media outlets for updates.

“We all have seen how quickly storms like this can strike and that is why it is so important for everyone to take thunderstorm and tornado warnings seriously. I cannot stress enough: follow directions from your local officials,” said Governor Pat McCrory said in a press release. “Stay alert and don’t get hurt.”

By noon, most of North Carolina was under a tornado watch meaning that conditions are favorable for tornadoes. Meteorologists also are predicting high chances of straight-line wind damage occurring across the central portion of the state today. Scattered severe thunderstorms are a certainty. The risk for multiple tornadoes is fairly high, including strong tornadoes. Areas east of US-1 will have the greatest risk and could see more numerous severe storms, with greater impacts. The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of central and eastern North Carolina, including Raleigh and Greenville, under a significant severe risk this afternoon and evening.

The threat for severe weather will increase dramatically by midday, with damaging winds in excess of 70 mph, large hail 1” or greater, and a few strong tornadoes possible.

Emergency Management officials recommend having a weather radio that broadcasts alerts from the National Weather service whenever severe weather occurs. Be sure to update your ReadyNC mobile app to ensure you have all the latest features and capabilities.

North Carolina Emergency is recommending people to:

• Know the terms: WATCH means a tornado is possible. WARNING means TAKE ACTION: a tornado has been spotted; take shelter immediately.
• Know where the nearest safe room is.
  • Home – go to the basement under the stairs or to an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.
  • Schools, hospitals, offices – go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor. Avoid long corridors with windows and large open areas with free span roofs like gyms.
  • High rise buildings – go to an interior hallway, bathroom or closet and stay away from windows.
  • Modular homes and vehicles – leave immediately and go to a sturdy building.
• If you are outdoors, and there is no shelter available, take cover in a low-lying flat area.  Watch out for flying debris.
• If driving, you should leave your vehicle immediately to seek safety in an adequate structure.  Do not try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle, and do not stop under an overpass or a bridge.
• Following a storm, wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves and gloves when walking on or near debris, and be aware of exposed nails and broken glass.
• Be aware of damaged power or gas lines and electrical systems that may cause fires, electrocution or explosions.

More information on tornadoes and overall emergency preparedness can be found in the ReadyNC mobile app and online atwww.ReadyNC.org. Be sure to update your ReadyNC app to ensure it has all the latest features.