Raleigh residents may need to keep their rain boots and umbrellas close at hand, as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Raleigh, NC predicts a series of unsettled weather patterns settling over the area this week. Looking ahead, the forecast anticipates an array of conditions from partly sunny skies today to potential thunderstorms and showers continuing through the weekend.
The NWS update released early this morning describes today's weather as partly sunny, with a high near 84 degrees. Winds from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph will carry, gusts as high as 18 mph. As night falls, a low around 65 is expected with a mild south wind at 6 to 8 mph. But it's not all clear skies, as there's a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms kicking in on Tuesday afternoon, with possible rainfall reaching a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
The NWS hazardous weather outlook underscores a particular attention for Tuesday afternoon through the early evening, where "isolated strong to severe storms are possible." This could translate into damaging wind gusts for some, the primary threat flagged by the NWS office. Though widespread severe weather isn't forecasted, locals should stay alert to changing weather conditions.
As the week progresses, the weather is predicted to remain capricious. Wednesday brings a 70% chance of showers, and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 PM, with new rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half of an inch possible. This wet narrative spills into Thursday, where there's a 50% chance of showers, afterward it parts to reveal skies that are mostly cloudy, with a low around 62.
For those hoping for drier days, the weekend forecast suggests that might not be the case. Saturday's weather should echo the conditions of the week with showers likely, and possibly a thunderstorm with a 60% chance of precipitation. Finally, a respite might arrive on Sunday, as the NWS predicts mostly sunny skies with a high near 75. Despite the unsettled pattern, no hazardous weather warnings have been put in place beyond Tuesday's potential for strong gusts.
For spotter groups and weather enthusiasts, the NWS states, "Spotter activation is not expected at this time." Residents and visitors in the Raleigh area should keep an eye on the NWS website and local forecasts for the most current weather updates and advisories as the week unfolds.
