Raleigh, N.C. – Fireworks may go off without a hitch this Independence Day in Raleigh, but the weekend could end with a bang of a different kind — thunderstorms are expected to move in by Sunday afternoon, threatening outdoor events and travel on major routes like US-1.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, dry and sunny skies will dominate through Saturday, with temperatures soaring near 93°F on the Fourth and hovering around 89°F Saturday. Calm winds and clear nights will support ideal conditions for holiday barbecues, fireworks, and lake trips across Wake County and surrounding areas.
But by Sunday, summer weather turns unstable. A 30% chance of thunderstorms begins after 2 p.m., with gusty winds and heavy rain possible in localized spots. Motorists and event organizers should monitor updates closely, especially if planning to be outdoors or on roadways like I-40 and US-64. The storm threat continues Sunday night and grows more widespread Monday, with rain chances increasing to 40% and lingering into Tuesday and Wednesday.
Stay weather-ready: Secure outdoor tents and electronics early, charge phones in advance of possible power flickers, and be flexible with travel or event plans.
🌤 Five-Day Raleigh Forecast (Friday, July 4 – Tuesday, July 9):
- Friday (July 4): Sunny, high near 93°F. Calm wind becoming NE 5–7 mph
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 89°F. Clear overnight
- Sunday: 30% chance of storms after 2 p.m., high near 88°F
- Monday: 40% chance of storms after 2 p.m., high near 88°F
- Tuesday: 50% chance of storms, mostly cloudy, high near 94°F
