Raleigh, North Carolina – Blazing sunshine and rising temperatures are setting the stage for one of the hottest days of the young summer season, but a developing storm threat could quickly change conditions by Monday afternoon across the Triangle.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, dry and sunny weather will dominate much of Sunday as temperatures surge toward 95 degrees. Light southwest winds will offer little relief, and the combination of strong June sunshine and increasing humidity will make conditions feel even warmer during the afternoon.
The bigger weather story arrives Monday.
Meteorologists are tracking a disturbance that could trigger showers and thunderstorms after midday as temperatures climb toward 97 degrees. Rain chances increase to 70 percent Monday, making it the most active weather day in the current outlook. Southwest winds may gust up to 24 mph ahead of developing storms.
Drivers on I-40, I-440, US-1 and Capital Boulevard should prepare for rapidly changing conditions Monday afternoon. Dry pavement and bright sunshine during the morning could give way to reduced visibility and pockets of heavy rain later in the day.
Residents planning outdoor activities should stay hydrated and limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon heat. Heat-related illnesses become more likely when temperatures approach the upper 90s, especially for those working outside.
Monday night remains unsettled. Showers and thunderstorms are likely through the evening hours before activity gradually becomes more scattered. While widespread severe weather is not indicated in the current outlook, any thunderstorm can produce brief downpours, lightning and localized gusty winds.
Conditions improve Tuesday with mostly sunny skies and highs near 93 degrees. Additional afternoon storm chances return Wednesday and continue periodically later in the week.
Long-range outlooks favor above-normal temperatures across North Carolina, suggesting the summer heat pattern may strengthen heading into late June.
Traveling Monday or spending time outdoors? Let us know how the heat feels in your neighborhood across the Triangle.
Five Day Forecast for Raleigh, North Carolina
Sunday: Sunny and hot. High near 95°F.
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy. Low around 74°F.
Monday: Mostly sunny early, then showers and thunderstorms likely after midday. High near 97°F. Chance of rain 70%.
Monday Night: Showers likely with possible thunderstorms. Low around 75°F. Chance of rain 60%.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny and hot. High near 93°F.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny with a chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High near 91°F. Chance of rain 30%.
