RALEIGH, NC — Showers and gusty winds are set to sweep through central North Carolina on Thursday, making for a wet and blustery day before sunshine returns for the weekend. Residents along I-40 should prepare for changing road conditions as wind gusts could reach 30 mph.
According to the National Weather Service, rain will begin after 2 p.m. Thursday, with an 80% chance of showers throughout the afternoon and evening. Winds from the south will pick up at 9 to 15 mph, with stronger gusts possible. Rainfall amounts will likely remain under a quarter-inch, but drivers should expect slick roads during the evening commute.
By Thursday night, showers will taper off before 8 p.m. as winds shift northwest, bringing cooler temperatures. Lows will drop to 38°F, with winds increasing to 11-13 mph and gusts reaching 30 mph.
Friday will bring a welcome change, with sunny skies and a high near 61°F. The pleasant spring weather will continue into the weekend, with highs of 70°F on Saturday and 69°F on Sunday under mostly sunny skies.
Looking ahead, another round of showers may return Monday, with a 50% chance of rain and highs near 72°F. However, the rest of next week is expected to remain mild.
Key Takeaways:
• Rain arrives Thursday afternoon with gusty winds up to 30 mph.
• Friday and the weekend will be sunny with temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s.
• A chance of showers returns Monday, but mild temperatures will persist.
For the latest updates, stay tuned to local forecasts and drive safely during wet conditions on Thursday.