Raleigh, North Carolina – Drivers and residents across Raleigh and Durham should brace for powerful thunderstorms and heavy rainfall arriving Thursday afternoon, threatening to snarl traffic along I-40 and delay outdoor plans. With intense summer heat in the mix, local officials are urging everyone to plan ahead, avoid flooded roadways, and keep emergency supplies close at hand.
According to the National Weather Service at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, showers and thunderstorms will move in after 2 p.m. Thursday, bringing a 90% chance of rain and highs near 89°F. Damaging wind gusts, lightning, and sudden downpours may reduce visibility and flood low-lying streets. If you must drive, turn on your headlights and steer clear of water-covered roads. Secure loose outdoor items and keep devices charged in case of power outages.
Storms will linger into Friday, with a 70% chance of continued thunderstorms and highs around 90°F. Evening storms are expected both Thursday and Friday, especially before midnight, increasing the risk for brief street flooding and delays for those commuting late. Weekend weather offers some relief: Saturday turns mostly sunny, but there’s still a 40% chance of scattered afternoon storms and highs climbing to 92°F. Sunday brings another round of scattered storms after 2 p.m., so keep your umbrella handy for any outdoor events.
Looking ahead, the five-day outlook features:
- Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m. High 89°F. South wind, rain chance 90%.
- Friday: Storms likely, especially after 2 p.m. High near 90°F. Rain chance 70%.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, storms possible after 2 p.m. High 92°F. Rain chance 40%.
- Sunday: Showers/storms after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny, high 92°F. Rain chance 40%.
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms possible, mostly sunny. High near 92°F. Rain chance 50%.
