Raleigh, North Carolina – Storms are expected to slam into central North Carolina by Friday afternoon, bringing lightning, strong wind gusts, and large hail to Wake County and surrounding areas. Residents along the I-40 corridor, including Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, should prepare now for possible travel delays and outdoor disruptions.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, Thursday will bring scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms after 2 p.m., with heavier rainfall likely Thursday night. However, Friday is shaping up as the most impactful day, with an 80% chance of thunderstorms—some potentially severe—mainly after 2 p.m. Large hail and damaging winds are possible, especially in areas east of Raleigh.
Western Wake and Durham counties could see locally heavy downpours with rain totals nearing an inch. Commuters should avoid flooded roads and secure outdoor items ahead of Friday’s storms. Spotter activation is not anticipated, but power outages can’t be ruled out.
The weekend clears dramatically: Saturday brings sunshine with a high near 80°F. Sunday follows with partly cloudy skies and warm highs in the mid-80s. A more humid pattern returns Monday, with showers and storms possible late and highs climbing into the upper 80s.
⚠️ Heads-up: Friday poses the highest risk for severe weather. Stay weather-aware and monitor local alerts before heading out.
The next NWS update is expected Thursday evening as Friday’s storm window tightens.
