Powerful thunderstorms may roll through this afternoon.

The National Weather Service upgraded its weather alert today for Rowan County to a watch, meaning conditions may allow for severe weather to develop.
The weather service said widespread wind damage is possible as a line of storms moving from Tennessee and West Virginia hits North Carolina this afternoon and evening. Tornadoes may also develop.
The weather watch is in effect until 10 p.m.
More weather information is available here.