ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for parts of Madison and Yancey counties in western North Carolina early Monday morning.
The warning, issued at 7:12 a.m. by the National Weather Service office in Greenville-Spartanburg, remains in effect until 7:45 a.m.
Forecasters said a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located about 8 miles east of Marshall, or near Mars Hill, moving northeast at 40 mph.
The storm is expected to move near Burnsville around 7:30 a.m.
Meteorologists said radar indicated rotation within the storm, raising the risk of a tornado. Flying debris could be dangerous for people without shelter, and mobile homes could be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows and vehicles is possible, and tree damage is likely.
Other communities that could be impacted include Green Mountain, Celo, Swiss and Micaville.
Residents in the warned area are urged to seek shelter immediately in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.