Spring warmth sticks around, severe weather expected midweek

By WRAL Severe Weather Center

Raleigh, N.C. — While the rest of the week is not likely to be as warm as Sunday’s 80-degree high, days in the 70s are very much on tap.

Monday, the first full day of spring, will be a great day to get outdoors, with mostly clear skies and a high around 71 degrees in Raleigh. Lows will drop into the mid 40s overnight.

Tuesday will be a warmer day, with a high of 73 degrees. It will also be more cloudy, although rain is not expected until Wednesday, when the next cold front will arrive along with the potential for scattered showers and thunderstorms possible in the afternoon and evening. Wednesday will be even warmer, with a high in the mid 70s.

Currently, there is a Level 2 risk for severe storms Wednesday, something meteorologists will be watching throughout the week.

According to WRAL meteorologist Peta Sheerwood, Wednesday’s showers and storms are expected to clear by Thursday. Highs in the 70s will fall into the upper 60s beginning Friday, and those cooler temperatures will continue into the weekend.

Saturday and Sunday will be very mild, with highs in the low to mid 60s. Rain is not expected.

Wednesday afternoon and evening, and the chance for showers lingers until about noon on Thursday.

Eager to get the garden going?

Wondering if it’s okay to start planting? Temperatures will stay spring-like for a while. WRAL meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth said there’s no indication of cold air on any forecast models. That said, it’s important to remember our average last freeze comes in mid-April.