Raleigh, North Carolina – Scorching temperatures and scattered thunderstorms will hammer Raleigh on Friday, July 18th, creating hazardous travel conditions and pushing heat index values past 100° across Wake County. Summer weather hazards will build through the afternoon, bringing not just oppressive humidity but also the risk of downpours and gusty winds, especially along I-40 and I-440.
According to the National Weather Service, the hottest part of the day will peak near 95°F, with “feels-like” temperatures soaring as high as 101°. Storms are most likely between 2 and 5 p.m., and the chance of precipitation reaches 30%—with localized heavy rainfall and brief street flooding possible. Drivers should plan extra travel time, avoid flooded roads, and check the latest updates before commuting on I-40, US-1, or I-440. Outdoor plans may be disrupted, and residents should stay hydrated and limit strenuous activity during the hottest hours.
Storm chances linger into Friday evening, but the heat won’t let up. The weekend brings more summer extremes—expect highs in the mid-90s Saturday and Sunday, with afternoon thunderstorm chances holding near 30%. Nights will stay muggy, with lows only dipping to the mid-70s.
Looking ahead, Monday and Tuesday keep the storm pattern going, with daily highs in the lower 90s and persistent humidity. Rain and thunder threats ramp up again Monday afternoon, carrying into Tuesday and even Wednesday, July 23rd.
Warnings and advisories may be issued as conditions evolve. Stay tuned for updates and prepare for more unsettled, stormy summer weather across Raleigh and central North Carolina.
Five-Day Forecast (Raleigh, NC: July 18–23)
- Friday, July 18:
- High 95°F (heat index 101°), scattered PM storms (30%), humid
- Saturday, July 19:
- High 94°F, chance of PM storms (30%), muggy night
- Sunday, July 20:
- High 92°F, isolated PM storms (30%), humid
- Monday, July 21:
- High 91°F, PM storms likely (50%), low 73°F
- Tuesday, July 22:
- High 90°F, storms possible after 2pm (30%), low 71°F
- Wednesday, July 23:
- High 89°F, scattered storms, slightly drier late
