Severe weather risk still active after confirmed tornado in Nash and Edgecombe counties

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- A level 1 risk for severe weather remains active for all of North Carolina.

The First Alert Day has already seen a confirmed EF-3 tornado touch down and cause damage across Nash and Edgecombe counties.

There is a chance of strong to severe thunderstorms Thursday in the afternoon and early evening.

SEE ALSO | Check all current weather advisories

A level 2 risk for severe storms is in effect for Thursday in the Sandhills. The biggest threat with the storms is damaging wind.

The rain will also help reduce smoke effects from the Canadian wildfires that prompted a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day on Tuesday in North Carolina.

Stay weather aware and connected. Download the ABC11 App right now

Tornado watch vs warning: Here's the difference and what they mean during severe weather

Click here for full weather advisories

WATCH | Full ABC11 First Alert to Severe Weather Special

The ABC11 First Alert Weather Team has important information to share about staying safe during turbulent weather.

Quick tips to help you spot trees that are more likely to fall during severe weather

Storms in North Carolina pack the potential to knock down trees, which could damage your property or injure someone you love.