Raleigh, N.C. – Sunshine and soaring temperatures return to the Triangle Tuesday, but residents should brace for a quick midweek shift. With highs reaching near 90 degrees, the heat will push into summer-like territory before rain and thunderstorms threaten late in the week.
According to the National Weather Service, Tuesday will stay calm, sunny, and dry across Wake County, with Raleigh topping out near 88 degrees. By Wednesday, temperatures climb to 90, though conditions remain mostly sunny. That calm breaks Thursday, when scattered showers begin after 2 p.m. and heavier rain pushes east into Friday. Travel on I-40 and local roads could slow by late week as downpours develop.
Raleigh’s early week stretch should feel like a final burst of summer. However, shifting patterns by Thursday mean residents should plan ahead for outdoor events and commutes. The National Weather Service reports a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms Friday, raising the potential for delays, slick roads, and power outages.
Residents should avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain, keep storm kits updated, and prepare for sudden changes in road conditions. Those driving across the Triangle, especially along I-40 and U.S. 70, should monitor weather alerts for fast-developing storms.
The weather threat continues into the weekend with lingering showers Saturday before tapering off by Sunday. Conditions should stabilize as temperatures return to the lower 80s. More advisories could follow later this week if thunderstorm activity intensifies.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 88. Low 67.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 90. Low 69.
- Thursday: Showers after 2 p.m., high near 86. Low 69.
- Friday: Showers and storms likely, high near 81. Low 68.
- Saturday: Chance of showers, partly sunny, high near 80. Low 65.
