Chilly start with record-tying low; dry stretch ahead as 90s return by weekend

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Good morning! It's chilly, with a record-tying low temp of 49 at RDU. Areawide, out-the-door temps are in the 40s and 50s.

High pressure will take hold of much of the eastern United States this week, which will keep conditions dry. This week features a dry forecast and more heat as a strong ridge of high pressure builds over the eastern half of the county. These conditions will allow for highs to soar into the 90s starting Friday and through the weekend.

The next chance for any kind of precipitation looks to hold off until late in the weekend with a few storms on Sunday into Monday as the front over the western Plains slowly moves in and a weak front over northern parts the country move southward into the area.

The entirety of North Carolina is in between severe drought and exceptional drought, with only 8.32" of rain at RDU; this is the driest first 5 months of the year on record. With the dry weather continuing, we will need to be extra cautious of elevated fire danger similar to 2008.

The Atlantic basin is quiet, and no tropical development is expected within the next 7 days.

Have a good day!
Kweilyn