The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for the southern end of Isle of Wight County, the city of Franklin and parts of Southampton County and the city of Suffolk.

The warning will remain in effect through 4:30 p.m. According to the NWS, at 3:59 p.m. a severe thunderstorm with radar-indicated rotation capable of producing a tornado was located near Gatesville in Gates County, N.C. moving north at 40 mph. The storm is expected to approach Carrsville, Franklin and Holland around 4:25 p.m. and Hunterdale and Sedley around 4:30.

The NWS is advising residents of these areas to take cover now by moving to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, and to avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and preotect yourself from flying debris.