Turning warmer heading heading into the weekend

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- First Alert - Fire Risk Today: The combination of low relative humidity dry vegetation will continue a risk of adverse fire behavior over central North Carolina through this evening. While winds are not expected to be strong, brief gusts to 15 mph are possible during the afternoon, continuing the enhanced fire danger conditions. Even stronger gusts are expected tomorrow. The North Carolina Forest Service has issued a statewide ban on all open burning until further notice, and all burning permits have been cancelled. Residents with questions can contact their NC Forest Service county ranger or their county fire marshals office.

Clouds will increase tonight as a warm front lifts north over the Ohio Valley, but we'll remain dry through Friday. A late-week warm up will result in highs near 80 Friday and Saturday as high pressure slides offshore and southwest winds pick up in speed. Thankfully, more moisture arrives by Saturday afternoon hopefully lowering the wildfire threat.

On Sunday, expect a mostly cloudy sky. A few late-day showers are possible with more expected overnight. This is a separate piece of energy from the one that brings us rain and storms on Monday.

By Monday, a First Alert Day is possible. A cold front will move across the state. Showers are expected, but during the afternoon and evening is when there is potential for strong-to-severe storms. The main threats look to be locally damaging wind gusts and hail.

It will turn cooler on Tuesday as the front pulls away. Highs will be in the middle to upper 60s.
It will begin warming up again on Wednesday with highs in the low 70s. Thursday will be even warmer with highs in the low-80s. A spotty shower can't be ruled out.

Have a great night!
Cruz Medina