Damaging winds and hail possible Wednesday, southern counties under Level 2 threat

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Much of the viewing area is under a Level 1 risk for severe weather Wednesday afternoon, and the Sandhills were upgraded to a Level 2 risk overnight.

According to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner, rain will become heavier in the Triangle by 4 p.m. ahead of a line of thunderstorms. The severe weather is expected to be strongest between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Storms will be worst in southern Wake County through the Sandhills, and threats will include damaging winds, hail, isolated tornadoes and localized flooding. Areas to the north could also be impacted, but Gardner said the main threat from the Triangle northward will be strong winds.

Wednesday rain timeline

Gardner said we will see isolated showers Wednesday morning through at least midday. Highs will be very warm, in the mid 70s.

The storms will be followed by a round of unusually cool weather. Highs will be in the mid 50s on Thursday and even colder Friday, when a hard freeze is likely in the morning hours.

There’s about 50% chance for rain into the morning commute on Thursday.

Lows could fall into the upper 20s to low 30s Friday morning with​ afternoon highs in the upper 40s to low 50s. A freeze this late in the season is concerning for farmers and delicate plants and vegetation.

There are ways to protect your plants for Friday’s potential freeze. Be sure to water plants in the afternoon, cover plants at night and then remove the cover in the morning.

At least Easter Sunday will be dry and beautiful with a high around 70 degrees.

7-Day Forecast