Humidity keeps Tuesday hot and sticky with afternoon storms possible

Despite its cloudy skies, Tuesday will be one of the hottest days of the week.

Scattered thunderstorms and rain are likely for the next three afternoons, but we're not expecting a washout every day, according to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner.

There is a small chance for afternoon storms on Tuesday and Wednesday, which will both be hot and humid, with highs around 90 degrees. The storms could be scattered in nature and won't affect everyone.

Tuesday will be hot and sticky. While the high is 89 degrees in Raleigh, elevated dew points will make it feel more like the mid 90s.

"It will be a great afternoon to get out to the pool, if you have one," said WRAL meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth.

Wednesday will also be hot and uncomfortably humid with a chance for storms before change takes effect Thursday.

A cold front arrives on Thursday, bringing milder temperatures in the low 80s and an elevated chance for storms. "We have a much better chance for storms Thursday and a level 1 risk for severe weather, with the biggest risk being damaging winds," Gardner said. "Between now and Friday, we could see an inch or more of rain across parts of the area," Gardner said.

While each day will be hot and humid, cloud cover will provide some shade for people spending time outside.

Highs on Friday and Saturday will stay in the mid 80s, which is typical for this time of year. Sunday could be a bit milder, with highs in the mid 80s.

Gardner said milder temperatures in the 80s are in the forecast next week.