Raleigh, N.C. – Thunderstorms packing heavy rain and damaging wind gusts are expected across central North Carolina Thursday, prompting a Flood Watch through midnight and raising concerns over downed trees and flash flooding in cities from Raleigh to Greensboro.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Level 1 severe weather risk is in place through Thursday evening with a focus on wind gusts and saturated soils, particularly within a yellow-outlined corridor stretching across the Piedmont. Affected areas could see 2 to 5+ inches of rain, with isolated higher amounts possible.
Urban centers like Durham, Sanford, and Fayetteville are at elevated risk for flooding due to prior rainfall from Tropical Storm Chantal. Even sub-severe wind gusts may topple trees, especially in spots where soils are still saturated from Wednesday’s storms. Power outages and road closures are possible, particularly on low-lying or poorly drained roads like U.S. Route 1 and I-40 east of Raleigh.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, keep phones charged, and monitor local alerts for potential Flood Warnings this evening. Flash flooding may develop rapidly, especially in creeks and urban basins.
Warnings remain in effect through 2 a.m. Friday, with additional updates possible if rainfall rates intensify.
🗓️ Five-Day Forecast – Central NC (Raleigh/Durham/Fayetteville Region)
- Thursday: Scattered storms, 2–5” rain, wind gusts to 40 mph. Flash flooding possible. High 83°F.
- Friday: Partly cloudy, drier. Spotty showers early. High 85°F.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny. High 88°F. Lows near 69°F.
- Sunday: Humid, isolated PM storms. High 90°F.
- Monday: Hot and mostly sunny. High 92°F, Heat Index up to 100°F.
Stay weather aware and have alerts enabled throughout the evening.
