Level 1 risk continues with thunder, lightning and possible isolated flooding

Most of central North Carolina, including the Triangle, is under a level 1 risk for severe weather Friday.

Rain was falling in Raleigh at 4 a.m. and is expected to increase in coverage and intensify by midday. It will be a humid afternoon, with a high in the low 80s.

Lightning and thunder are likely, but heavy rain and isolated flooding are the biggest threats from the storms. “Regardless of which counties are included, we cannot rule out the chance of a severe thunderstorm anywhere in the area all day,” said WRAL meteorologist Zach Maloch.

Saturday will also be under a level 1 risk, with severe more likely in the afternoon and evening. It will be another hot day in the 80s.

Sunday will be cooler and drier after a cold front passes, leaving highs in the mid to upper 70s, and the new work week will start unusually mild as well.

We have yet to see a 90 degree day this year, which is rare for late May and early June, WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner said.

Tropics update

The National Hurricane Center is watching an area in the central Atlantic that has a low chance of organizing over the next 2-5 days.