Showers, thunderstorms move through central NC

Wake, Johnston, Harnett, Lee, and Chatham counties were issued severe thunderstorm warnings. Heavy rain and lightning were also reported in Moore and Sampson counties.

"The storms are moving to the north and northeast and they are expected to hang around into the early morning hours on Friday," WRAL meteorologist Mike Maze said.

Clouds will linger overnight and into Friday morning as temperatures dip into the 60s across the region.

The humid, unsettled pattern will reach its height as highs on Friday afternoon climb into the low 80s.

"We will be tracking another cold front on Friday, but most of the day will remain dry," Maze said. "As the front moves in Friday evening this will be out best chance of seeing severe storms."

All of central North Carolina is under an elevated risk for severe weather during the afternoon and evening hours.

"The biggest threats will be damaging wind gusts and large hail," he said.

The pattern will change quickly overnight Friday into Saturday as cooler, drier air pushes into the area.

"We will likely have clouds to start the weekend, but more and more sun will be shining as we progress through the day on Saturday," Maze said.

Highs will top out in the low 70s both Saturday and Sunday.