Raleigh, N.C. – North Carolina residents should brace for scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain beginning Tuesday afternoon, with road travel potentially affected across the Raleigh area. The National Weather Service warns that rainfall totals between a quarter- and half-inch are possible, with gusts near 18 mph and isolated thunderstorm activity expected through Tuesday night.
According to the NWS Raleigh office, Tuesday’s storms will start after 2 p.m. and intensify into the evening hours. Showers and possible thunderstorms are forecast to continue overnight into early Wednesday. Drivers along I-40 and area surface streets should expect low visibility and ponding, particularly between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m. Wednesday. Tuesday’s high will reach around 68°F, with east winds from 7 to 9 mph.
Showers will linger through Wednesday with an 80% chance of precipitation and a high near 75°F. Winds will shift slightly from the northeast at 6 mph. Localized flooding in low-lying areas remains a concern through midweek.
Residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel during storm periods, secure outdoor items, and charge electronic devices in case of outages. If thunder roars, head indoors.
Extended Look: Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC
- Thursday: Showers remain possible, with a 50% chance and a high near 82°F.
- Friday: Afternoon storms may return. High of 81°F under partly sunny skies.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny and warm, high near 84°F – a welcome summer feel.
- Sunday: Sunny with a high around 85°F – ideal Memorial weekend wrap.
