Raleigh residents are advised to brace for a day of heavy rains and the potential for severe weather. A 100% chance of precipitation today with new rainfall amounts between three-quarters and one inch possible. The forecast includes a chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 9 a.m., with a high temperature hovering near 75 degrees. Southwest wind will be around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. The weather throughout the night doesn't look much better, with showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 a.m., followed by likely showers into the nighttime. The low will drop to around 46 degrees, as the National Weather Service in Raleigh, North Carolina reports.
The National Weather Service's Hazardous Weather Outlook highlights a Marginal Risk (level 1 of 5) of severe thunderstorms today through early evening, with local damaging wind gusts and the possibility of an isolated tornado. The significant time for these events will be from noon through 8:00 PM. Residents should also prepare for a Marginal Risk (level 1 of 5) of flash flooding today and tonight, mainly concerning urban and small stream flooding.
Relief from the storms is in sight as the weather service predicts a sunny Tuesday, with a high near 58 degrees. However, a freeze is likely Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, with temperatures expected to plummet into the upper 20s to lower 30s. This sudden drop in temperature may pose a risk to early spring vegetation and anyone with outdoor plans should take proper precautions to protect sensitive plants and pets.
The upcoming weather shifts dramatically once again later in the week, with temperatures climbing back into the balmy 60s. Thursday remains partly sunny with a high near 70 degrees, but yet another change looms in the form of a 50% chance of showers after 8 p.m. The weather roller coaster continues into Friday, as showers are likely with the high near 66 degrees and a 60% chance of precipitation. But come the weekend, skies will clear, promising mostly sunny days, and nighttime lows will graze the mid-40s.
The outlook stresses that spotter activation is not expected at this time, but it's always a good idea to stay informed of any weather updates. Safety should be a priority during severe weather events, and residents are encouraged to follow any directives or tips provided by the National Weather Service. As conditions evolve, additional updates are likely to be issued.
