Raleigh starts Sunday near 73°F under sunny skies, but the Capital City is headed for a seriously steamy afternoon. Temperatures should reach 94°F, with the heat index climbing to around 100, while only a slight chance of a late-day thunderstorm offers any interruption.
Afternoon Storms Stay Isolated
The National Weather Service Raleigh office says showers and thunderstorms could pop up after 3 p.m., with a 20% chance of precipitation and southwest winds around 6 mph. Any storm that develops could bring a brief downpour, lightning and a burst of gusty wind, although the overall storm threat remains limited.
There are no watches, warnings or advisories posted for the Raleigh area. Heat is the bigger concern, so outdoor plans will be more comfortable earlier in the day, with water, shade and breaks becoming increasingly important as the afternoon wears on.
More Heat Before The Weekend Eases
Monday looks even hotter, with a high near 95°F and heat index values as high as 104. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms returns after 5 p.m., followed by another hot day Tuesday with a high near 97°F.
Wednesday and Thursday should stay sunny to mostly sunny with highs around 96°F, though nighttime storm chances increase from Tuesday night through Thursday night. The forecast finally trends cooler Friday and Saturday, when highs drop to around 92°F and 87°F, respectively, with more frequent chances for showers and thunderstorms.
Early Starts Look Best For Sunday Plans
Anyone heading to a park, market or ball field will have the best odds of avoiding the worst heat by going in the morning or around midday. Storm chances are low, but not zero, after midafternoon, so keep an eye on the sky if plans extend into the evening.
