Raleigh, North Carolina – Summer heat and dangerous thunderstorms are set to collide in Raleigh on Wednesday, July 9, disrupting travel and daily routines across Wake County. Drivers on US-401 and throughout the city should prepare for sudden downpours, high winds, and possible flash flooding beginning late Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are likely to start after 11 a.m., intensifying through the afternoon with a heat index climbing as high as 103°. South winds will pick up to 7 mph, and rainfall totals could reach a half inch in some neighborhoods. Residents should plan for slowdowns on major routes like US-401, I-40, and NC-540, and keep an eye on rapidly changing conditions. The chance of rain is 80%—with the highest risk of severe weather stretching from noon through the evening commute.
Localized flooding, downed tree limbs, and isolated power outages are possible, especially during periods of intense rainfall. Stay indoors if thunder roars and charge mobile devices now in case of service interruptions. Avoid unnecessary travel and never drive through water-covered roads. Outdoor activities, including sports and construction, may be delayed or canceled for safety.
Looking ahead, scattered storms remain likely on Thursday, with more widespread rain and thunderstorms possible into Friday. Saturday brings a brief break with a chance of afternoon showers and highs near 91°, but more storms could return Sunday and Monday. Keep summer safety gear handy and monitor local alerts as advisories remain possible through early next week.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC (Wed, July 9 – Mon, July 14):
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m., high near 93°. Heat index up to 103°. Chance of rain 80%.
- Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, especially in the afternoon. High near 90°. Chance of rain 90%.
- Friday: Afternoon thunderstorms possible, mostly cloudy, high near 90°. Chance of rain 80%.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, scattered storms after 2 p.m. High near 91°. Chance of rain 50%.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, continued risk of storms, high near 93°. Chance of rain 40%.
- Monday: More storms likely, high near 92°. Chance of rain 60%.
