Raleigh, NC – North Carolina residents should prepare for a volatile weather pattern Wednesday, with severe storms, strong winds, and increased fire risk affecting much of the state. A squall line could bring damaging straight-line winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes to the region, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Raleigh, severe weather is expected to move in Wednesday morning, peaking in the afternoon. A Level 2 (out of 5) risk has been issued for severe thunderstorms, with the potential for scattered storms redeveloping later in the day. Even outside of storm activity, strong southerly winds will create hazardous conditions.
A fire danger warning remains in effect through Tuesday evening, with dry conditions and gusty winds increasing the likelihood of fast-spreading wildfires. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and properly extinguish smoking materials to prevent accidental fires.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Raleigh, NC
• Wednesday: Showers, storms, and high winds. High near 70°F.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny and cooler, high of 55°F.
• Friday: Sunny with a high of 60°F.
• Saturday: Partly cloudy, chance of showers. High near 72°F.
• Sunday: Showers possible, highs in the mid-50s.
What to Do:
• Secure outdoor objects ahead of high winds.
• Stay indoors during severe storms.
• Monitor NWS updates for weather changes.
Expect rapidly shifting conditions through midweek as winter exits and spring storms arrive.
