Residents in Raleigh looking at the sky this weekend will see a lot more than just clouds. The National Weather Service in Raleigh, NC, has issued a forecast that's filled with rainy and windy conditions with the possibility of hazardous weather coming soon. Later today, rain is expected mainly after 5 p.m., with calm winds turning southeast and a high near 51 degrees. You're looking at a 60% chance of getting wet if you're stepping out. By tonight, those rain chances rise to 70%, with an increase in temperature to around 61 by the wee hours.
For those planning their tomorrow activities, it would be wise to keep an indoor plan B ready. Showers and possibly a thunderstorm are projected before 1 p.m., then more showers likely, according to the National Weather Service. Along with the rain, expect a high near 68 degrees and it won't just be the rain that's brisk—winds from the south will gust as high as 45 mph with a 100% chance of precipitation. So if you've got outdoor plans, it's probably time to rethink them.
Monday honors George Washington's birthday with sunny skies and a pleasant high near 49, but don't shed your layers just yet. By Wednesday, the region faces an 80% chance for rain that might turn into freezing rain and sleet overnight. Raleigh, ready thy winter coats and prepare for slick roads; another wintry mix is heading your way by next Thursday.
The weekend's windy weather serves as a prelude to the more significant concerns highlighted in the Hazardous Weather Outlook from NWS Raleigh. "Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible Sunday morning and early afternoon, with the primary hazard being damaging wind gusts," reads the statement. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and seek shelter if storms approach or warnings are issued.
