Raleigh, N.C. — Severe storms could pop up Monday in central and eastern North Carolina as a cold front rolls through in the later afternoon and evening.

"Some of the storms could be strong to severe with damaging winds and an isolated tornado ... mainly across the southern half of our viewing area," said WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner.

Monday's cloudy, rainy weather will taper off around mid-day. In the late afternoon, though, a second cold front will roll through the state, sparking the chance for thunderstorms and showers.

South of the Triangle, including parts of southern Harnett and Lee counties, will see an elevated risk of severe weather. The risk will last into Monday night. Between a half-inch and an inch of rain could fall.

"Then, Tuesday is much quieter," said WRAL meteorologist Mike Maze.

Tuesday and Wednesday will see pleasant weather, with a good deal of sunshine and highs in the low to mid 60s. That mild stretch will come to an end on Thursday, when a second cold front comes through and sparks a  chance for showers and storms again.

"It's really cold for the arrival of winter on Friday," Maze said.

Friday will see a high around 49 degrees and a low around the freezing mark. Temperatures will pop back up into the mid 50s as sunshine reigns for the weekend.