Raleigh-Durham/ Weather & Environment

Raleigh Basks In One Last Sunny Day Before Storms Roar Back

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Published on August 25, 2026
Raleigh Basks In One Last Sunny Day Before Storms Roar BackSource: Google Street View

Raleigh gets one more dry, less humid day Tuesday, with sunny skies and temperatures climbing from the mid-60s early to a high near 88. The forecast then takes a familiar late-summer turn as humidity rises and afternoon storm chances return for the middle and end of the week.

The National Weather Service Raleigh forecast calls for a light north wind around 5 mph Tuesday and no rain. Tonight should stay mostly clear, with temperatures falling to around 65, and no watches, warnings or advisories are listed for the area.

Wednesday Brings The First Storm Chance

Wednesday will remain mostly sunny and reach about 90 degrees, but a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives after 2 p.m. Rain chances are around 20%, with a warmer, more humid night ahead and a low near 71.

Thursday And Friday Look Wettest

Rain chances rise sharply Thursday, when showers and thunderstorms become more likely after midday and the probability of precipitation reaches 60%. Raleigh could see rainfall totals between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, with another warm afternoon near 88.

Friday currently looks like the most unsettled day, with a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms and a high near 85. In its forecast discussion, the weather service said repeated rounds of heavier rain appear possible Thursday and especially Friday as moisture increases across central North Carolina.

Weekend Storm Chances Linger

Saturday brings a 50% chance of rain, showers and thunderstorms, with partly sunny skies and a high near 84. Sunday should be mostly sunny and warmer near 88, though another slight chance of afternoon storms remains before sunny, 90-degree weather returns Monday.

Tuesday is the cleanest bet for outdoor errands, yard work or a long lunch outside. By Thursday and Friday, flexible plans will be useful, especially for anyone spending time outdoors during the afternoon and evening.