A stormy Monday night is in store for parts of coastal North Carolina, with heavy rain and gusty winds expected before clearing skies arrive Tuesday. Residents in Newport and Belville should prepare for overnight showers, with rainfall amounts reaching up to half an inch.
According to the National Weather Service, rain will persist through early Tuesday morning, especially in Belville, where thunderstorms are possible before midnight. Winds will shift northward at 10-15 mph, with gusts reaching 23 mph. Rain chances drop to 30% by sunrise, allowing for gradual clearing throughout the day. Highs will reach the upper 60s in Newport and low 70s in Belville under sunny skies by Tuesday afternoon.
By Wednesday, both cities will enjoy clear conditions with highs near 73°F. Thursday brings even warmer temperatures, reaching 75°F under mostly sunny skies. Nighttime lows will remain mild, hovering in the upper 40s to low 50s.
Looking ahead, spring-like warmth will continue into the weekend, with Friday and Saturday seeing highs in the low 70s and partly sunny skies. Rain chances return Sunday, with showers likely in the afternoon.
Drivers on U.S. Highway 70 and Interstate 40 should remain cautious Monday night due to wet roads and reduced visibility. Plan for extra travel time and expect slick conditions, especially in low-lying areas.
Residents should take advantage of the improving weather later this week, as sunny skies and warmer temperatures signal the approach of spring.