Raleigh, NC —North Carolina will face increasing wind gusts and elevated fire danger midweek, with Wednesday posing the greatest risk across the Raleigh area.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, winds will shift to the west-northwest behind a cold front between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 16. Speeds are forecast between 15 and 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. Combined with humidity as low as 20 percent, conditions could rapidly increase the risk of wildfires, especially in counties that have seen little rainfall in recent days.
Drivers along NC Highway 70 and throughout the Triangle should remain alert for blowing debris and limited visibility. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and secure lightweight objects. While skies will remain sunny, the fire weather threat will persist through sunset on Wednesday.
The weather outlook stabilizes after midweek. Thursday and Friday will be dry and sunny, with gradually warming temperatures.
Extended 5-Day Spring Forecast for Raleigh:
- Wednesday: Sunny. High 68°F. Wind NW 6–14 mph, gusts to 25 mph.
- Thursday: Sunny. High 70°F. Calm wind.
- Friday: Sunny and warm. High 80°F.
- Saturday: Partly cloudy. High 85°F.
- Sunday: Sunny and breezy. High 82°F.
