Severe Weather Threat Looms Across Southeastern U.S. This Weekend

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Severe weather warnings are in effect as thunderstorms threaten the southeastern United States this weekend. Forecasters predict temperatures reaching the low 80s today, with elevated humidity and southerly winds enhancing the potential for isolated strong to severe storms.

The National Weather Service has issued a storm alert for late this afternoon through the evening, particularly targeting central and northern Maryland, where conditions may result in damaging wind gusts and large hail. While much of the area remains dry, the storm system is anticipated to intensify as it moves north.

The First Alert Weather team emphasizes that most areas south of Interstate 66 will likely remain unaffected by storms, which are expected to develop along a weather front lifting northward. Overnight temperatures are predicted to remain mild, only dipping into the 60s, although increased shower chances are likely after midnight.

In Raleigh, North Carolina, rain swept through the region on Monday night, with a cold front prompting severe thunderstorm watches. While the storms proved less intense than feared, there is an expectation for continued scattered showers as high pressure returns, bringing drier weather conditions on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, wildfire crews in North Carolina reported some progress in tackling the Table Rock Fire in Transylvania County, which remains under a state of emergency. The rainfall has temporarily alleviated some air quality issues associated with high levels of pollen, particularly from local pine and oak trees.

As for the end of the week, temperatures in Kentucky and the ArkLaTex region are projected to soar into the mid to upper 80s. However, severe weather is predicted with the potential for tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds to persist through Friday.

A wind advisory is in effect in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where winds could gust up to 50 mph. Meteorologists warn that the storms may become particularly severe after 7 p.m., with significant threats of flash flooding expected due to heavy rainfall.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant as severe storms could result in hazardous conditions across the entire southeastern U.S. through Saturday, before a drier forecast is projected for the start of the upcoming work week.