The National Weather Service in Newport released a severe weather alert for Beaufort County in effect until 11 p.m. Thursday.

A line of showers will affect the south central part of the county. At 10:13 p.m., radar indicated showers were located along a line extending from 11 miles east of Vanceboro to 13 miles northwest of River Bend, to 6 miles southeast of Mount Olive.

The storms were moving south at 30 mph, and winds in excess of 45 mph are possible.

Seek shelter in a nearby building or vehicle. Strong winds are capable of knocking down small trees and blowing around trash cans, potted plants, lawn furniture and other light outdoor objects.