Raleigh, N.C. – Damaging wind gusts could impact central North Carolina late this afternoon as a weak storm system sweeps across the region, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Level 1 (marginal) severe weather risk for Thursday.
According to the NWS Raleigh office, storms are most likely between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday, with the main concern being strong straight-line winds capable of knocking down branches or damaging unsecured outdoor items. While tornado chances remain very low, residents from Durham to Fayetteville should stay alert through the evening hours.
The threat doesn’t end there. A stronger round of storms is expected Friday, with central counties— including Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Goldsboro—under a Level 2 (slight) risk. Scattered thunderstorms could bring hail and stronger winds, with the highest chances occurring Friday afternoon and evening, again peaking after 4 p.m.
Drivers should use caution during the evening commute and secure loose outdoor objects now. Make sure phones are charged and weather alerts are enabled.
The severe risk drops again on Saturday, but isolated storms may still pop up. Another update from the NWS is expected Friday morning.
