Raleigh National Weather Service meteorologist Barrett Smith said the storms should reach Fayetteville by noon.

Nearly 10 million people living in communities across North and South Carolina are bracing for tornadoes, as a series of deadly storms that already wreaked havoc in the South the day before is barreling toward the Eastern Seaboard.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a severe weather statement Tuesday morning just after 9 a.m. According to NWS, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Blanchard -- just eight miles northwest of Shreveport.

The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch that includes New Orleans and Baton Rouge metro areas until 7 p.m. Tuesday. The threat of severe weather prompted New Orleans Mardi Gras parades to roll early Fat Tuesday and attention is now turning what is in the forecast this afternoon and evening.

NWS suggested tornadoes are possible, with wind gusts to 75 mph and isolated storms with large hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter.

A tornado watch is in effect for Hampton Roads and the surrounding areas.

The National Weather Service issued an updated tornado watch at 11:37 p.m. on Tuesday in effect until Wednesday at 1 a.m. for Covington County.

You hear the terms watch and warning a lot in severe weather. Here's what they mean and what you should do when it's issued in your area.

Understanding the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is crucial for safety. The National Weather Service uses certain criteria to determine if a tornado watch or warning could be issued for your area.