Storms move out in time for sunny weekend

Warm temperatures brought strong thunderstorms south and west of Raleigh Thursday afternoon, but any severe weather is expected to clear up later this evening, bringing a sunny weekend with partly to mostly cloudy skies.

Thursday’s temperatures ranged from the upper 60s near South Hill, Va., to the 80s in Fayetteville.

“The temperature contrast has created some strong storms south and west of Raleigh,” WRAL Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel said. “Perhaps the most important danger with these storms is going to be flooding because the storms are not moving all that terribly quickly.”

The heaviest storm activity was reported east of Lumberton, Fishel said. Hail was reported in Southern Pines. Areas around Laurinburg and Raeford may have to deal with flooding due to the slow moving storm, Fishel said.

The storms should move out of the region by 9 p.m. with some lingering showers overnight and lows in the mid-60s.

Friday will be mostly cloudy with possible showers and a potential afternoon thunderstorm. Temperatures are expected to reach 76 degrees in Raleigh.

The weekend will be sunny with forecast highs of 81 on Saturday and 79 on Sunday under cloudy skies.