CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - Officials say a handful of people were

injured by violent storms that likely spawned tornadoes, ripped the

metal roof off at least one building and damaged dozens of homes in

central North Carolina.

National Weather Service meteorologist Gail Hartfield says

eyewitnesses spotted several tornadoes between Charlotte and

Greensboro on Sunday night, though none has been confirmed. She

says there are initial reports of several injuries in the Linwood

area.

She said 20 to 30 homes have been damaged in High Point.

Hundreds of lightning strikes have been reported, as well as high

winds, hail and heavy rain between Charlotte and Greensboro.

Northern Georgia also was hit with heavy storms. Power is out is

some areas.

Mitch Carmichael told The Charlotte Observer that he was in his

mobile home when he felt the structure shake.