Raleigh, North Carolina – Scattered thunderstorms and intense afternoon heat are expected to slam into central North Carolina by Monday as Tropical Storm Chantel bringing flash flood potential and disrupting evening travel across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms will develop after 2 p.m. Monday, July 7, with a 50% chance of rain and localized downpours possible through the evening. Heat index values could reach 98°F in Raleigh and surrounding cities, raising the risk of heat-related illness for outdoor workers and those without reliable cooling.
Expect peak impacts along I-40 and major routes near Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill between 3 and 7 p.m. Storms may deliver wind gusts, brief urban flooding, and isolated lightning strikes. Power outages remain possible, especially in tree-lined residential neighborhoods.
Monday night will bring partly cloudy skies and muggy conditions, with lows around 75°F. Another round of showers and storms could return after 2 p.m. Tuesday, with increasing rain chances through Wednesday. Rainfall totals may exceed 1 inch in some areas.
Safety Tips: Avoid driving through flooded roadways. Check local alerts before commuting. Drink water frequently and limit outdoor exposure.
☀️ Five-Day Raleigh Forecast (July 7–12)
- Monday: Thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m.; high 89°F. Chance of precipitation: 50%.
- Tuesday: More storms possible after 2 p.m.; high near 95°F. Heat continues.
- Wednesday: Strong storms and heavy rain likely, especially between 8 p.m.–2 a.m.; high 94°F.
- Thursday: Slight cooling; showers and storms still possible; high 89°F.
- Friday: Rain continues with scattered storms; high 83°F and humid.
