Rain showers likely Wednesday, but sunshine returns for holiday

On the final day of the wetter-than-normal pattern that has brought flooding to several parts of the Triangle, the chances for rain will increase dramatically around lunchtime. Clouds will once again keep temperatures down, as highs will top out in the low 80s. 

"We could see those showers develop at any point, but our best chances will be from noon into the afternoon," Gardner said. "Our flash flood watch remains in effect for all of central North Carolina until 8 p.m. Wednesday night. But after today, we'll see major improvements to the weather pattern."

Most notably, sunshine will become a more consistent member of the forecast.

Sunshine will gradually break through the clouds Thursday morning, helping produce a muggy, warm evening for Fourth of July celebrations across the area. Local fireworks shows should be able to go off without a hitch, Gardner said. 

"The high pressure system that has been hovering well of our coast will sag westward, and that's what is going to help our weather improve," Gardner said. 

The Triangle won't lose the chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms completely, but the pattern will be much more normal for early July. Rain chances will hover at 30 to 40 percent on most afternoons over the next several days as opposed to 70 to 80 percent.

With more sunshine in the forecast, temperatures will climb back into the low 90s, also normal for early July.

"Get ready for hot, humid conditions once the sunshine returns," Gardner said.