Raleigh, N.C. — Rainy conditions will persist across central North Carolina for the third consecutive day Thursday as a slow-moving cold front works its way southward, WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner said. 

The best chances for heavy rain and thunderstorms will be to the south of the Triangle during the afternoon and evening hours as temperatures climb into the mid-80s, but low clouds and drizzle will impact the morning commute.

"The front that has kept us cloudy and cool throughout the week is slowly sinking south of the Triangle, so that's where the best chance for storms and heavier rain is today," Gardner said. "Areas that have seen heavy rain the last two days could be at risk for some minor flooding this afternoon."

Rainfall totals across most of the area should top out between 1 and 3 inches by the end of the day Thursday, but some areas could end up with 4 to 5 inches. 

"We've had some very isolated incidents of flooding, spots in Moore County dealt with that Wednesday," Gardner said. 

Sunshine will make its way into the forecast by the weekend as rain chances diminish Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Temperatures will climb accordingly, topping out in the low 90s by the end of the weekend.

Summer heat returns early next week, as high temperatures will climb back into the mid-and upper 90s by Tuesday and Wednesday, Gardner said.