The National Weather Service (NWS) in Raleigh, NC, has issued its latest forecast and hazardous weather outlook, warning residents of central North Carolina to brace for a dynamic period of weather over the coming days. According to the NWS report, today's weather includes a chance of showers and thunderstorms post-4 pm, with largely overcast skies and a high near 82 degrees coupled with a calm wind shifting south.
For tonight, the NWS predicts a greater likelihood of showers and thunderstorms before 2 am, followed by possible showers in a cloudy backdrop. As the calm winds take a southern churn at around 5 mph, the chances of precipitation sit at 60% with new rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible, for those keeping score. Friday amplifies the conditions with an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms after the 2 pm mark, with new rainfall adding up to a quarter of an inch, though thunderstorms could bring higher totals.
The weather outlook does not let up for the weekend, as Saturday holds a continued, although slight, chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon timeframe. However, sunny skies are anticipated with a high nearing the 80-degree mark, and the presence of a west wind could introduce gusts as high as 20 mph according to the NWS forecast. Sunday through Wednesday, the NWS projects a stretch of sunny days with temperatures climbing from the low-80s to highs nearing 89 degrees.
The NWS has also flagged up coming days with a Hazardous Weather Outlook, highlighting potential severe thunderstorms on Friday. The agency cautions that "the strongest storms and any that cluster will be capable of strong to, locally damaging wind gusts." Severe thunderstorms are expected Friday, with large hail and damaging wind gusts as primary hazards, while "an isolated tornado or two will also be possible." Saturday may also see storms with small hail in the afternoon. Spotter activation may be deemed necessary, particularly heading into Friday afternoon.
