A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to create dazzling auroras that may be seen as far south as Alabama on Saturday morning.

Rare solar storm could make northern lights visible from NC tonight: When, how to see the dazzling display

Officials are encouraging residents to take steps to prepare for extreme weather ahead of hurricane season. New data shows flood and wind risk is changing in the state.

Inland homes at risk for high winds, flooding during hurricane season. Here's what you can do now.

Holly Springs shed damage

More than a dozen former employees say understaffing at Brynn Marr Hospital contributes to what they describe as a dangerous place for patients and employees. Hospital officials say allegations of violence, sexual assaults, overmedication and lack of mental health therapy are unfounded.

Former employees say short-staffed NC psych hospital rife with violence, abuse

Brynn Marr Hospital

Two of the highest health officials in the state turned themselves into a Flint court Thursday morning.

<b>FLINT, MI</b> — Two of the highest health officials in the state turned themselves into a Flint court Thursday morning.

One of them is facing involuntary manslaughter - the most serious criminal charge handed down so far in connection with the water crisis.

The charges stem from the outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Genesee County linked to the Flint River water.

Investigators with the Attorney General's Office say Nick Lyon, the director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, knew about the outbreak for a year before warning the public. He is charged with involuntary manslaughter.

The state's chief medical executive, Dr. Eden Wells, also turned herself in Thursday morning. She's charged with lying to a police officer and obstruction of justice.

Wells apparently tried to stop Wayne State University researchers from looking into the Legionnaires' problem.

Four others previously charged in this investigation are now also facing involuntary manslaughter charges - former emergency manager Darnell Earley, Flint Public Works Director Howard Croft and two DEQ higher ups.

2 health officials turn themselves in after newest Flint water charges 2 health officials turn themselves in after newest Flint water charges

A couple's breakup ended in a terrifying moment caught on a Ring doorbell camera.

On cam: Man says ex-girlfriend shot at him, tried to run him over in Fayetteville

On cam: Ring doorbell video captures violent interaction 

Temperatures will drop down to the 50s tonight, making for a comfortable sleep.


WRAL Weather Alert Day ends for Friday: Quiet night ahead expected

Weekend planner

A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to create dazzling auroras that may be seen as far south as Alabama and Northern California but also disrupt communications on Earth tonight and over the weekend.

Solar storms could create rare aurora displays, be visible in North Carolina this weekend

Aurora forecast for May 10-11

North Carolina's budget surplus is now expected to be approximately $1 billion, down from previous reports that have anticipated $1.4 billion.

NC's budget surplus will be $430 million less than expected, officials say

NC Sales Tax

William Hulme and Matthew Johnson were a couple who shared their love for each other and their community for about five years. However, in April, their roommate Christian Webster allegedly shot them to death.

Father of Franklinton homicide victim wants death penalty for the suspect, more mental health oversight

William Hulme and Matthew Johnson

WRAL-TV News Broadcasts: Watch each newscast live or watch the most recent newscast on demand.

WRAL Late News 

WRAL Noon News

Get the latest WRAL WeatherCenter Forecast whenever you need it, including the DUALDoppler5000 and the 7-Day Forecast.

WRAL WeatherCenter Forecast

Severe risk for Friday 

Interstate 40 West is closed Friday after a crash along the interstate near Garner.

Sky 5 flies over I-40 West crash near Garner

Sky 5 flies over I-40 West closure after crash near Garner

Daytime Pick 3 and Pick 4 drawings are held at 3 p.m. daily. They can be seen as live or on-demand video.

Daytime Pick 3 and Pick 4 Drawing

Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour talks about facing a 3-0 series deficit against the New York Rangers and looks ahead to Game 4 on Saturday.

Brind'Amour: It's a new day and a new challenge

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour

Videos

The Carolina Hurricanes hope to keep their season alive in Game 4 of the second-round playoff series against the New York Rangers on Saturday night at PNC Arena.

With backs against the wall, Canes' resolve faces ultimate challenge

Rangers_Hurricanes_Hockey_78209

Dozens of people showed up on Douglas Street in Wilson on Thursday morning for a groundbreaking ceremony for the Carolina Mudcats' new Wilson stadium.

Wilson breaks ground on new Mudcats baseball stadium

The United States Golf Association has opened its new headquarters in Pinehurst, which includes the World Golf Hall of Fame.

USGA opens new headquarters in Pinehurst, showcasing historic golf artifacts

The United States Golf Association has opened its new headquarters in Pinehurst, which includes the World Golf Hall of Fame. Photo provided by USGA.

Wake County and Raleigh approved a financing plan to pay for upgrades at PNC Arena. The renovation project won't begin until next summer.

What's next for PNC Arena upgrade after city, county approve financing plan

Tip off as the Pack take on the Heels

NEW YORK (AP) — Vincent Trocheck couldn't describe the feeling when he finally scored in the second overtime to give the New York Rangers another big win.