A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect through 8 p.m. for the entire Charlotte metro and surrounding communities, including Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan, Stanly, and Union counties. The strongest storms could produce wind gusts as high as 70 mph, hail and torrential rain.
The region will squeeze in one more hot and humid summer day before a cold front finally pushes through. Afternoon highs will climb into the middle 90s, but with oppressive humidity, it'll feel more like 100 to 105 degrees. Storms are expected to begin developing during the afternoon before becoming more widespread through the evening hours. The greatest concern is between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tuesday, when a few thunderstorms could become strong to severe.
Saturday follows a similar theme with comfortable temperatures, plenty of clouds, and another round of rain in the morning into early afternoon. It won't be an all-day washout, but keep the umbrella nearby if you have outdoor plans. Highs will remain in the 80s with some humidity creeping back up.
A cold front is expected to slide south of the region by Friday, bringing a noticeable drop in humidity along with much more comfortable temperatures. After days of tropical air, it's going to feel surprisingly refreshing. High temperatures from Friday through Saturday will run nearly 10 degrees below what's typical for late July. Instead of the usual muggy 90s, afternoon highs will stay in the 80s, making it one of the coolest stretches we've experienced in quite some time.
Rain continues through tonight with ongoing flood impacts
Tonight I'm watching a fading line of storms that may brush our northern communities, but most of the area should stay dry until Wednesday, when the atmosphere becomes much more active. Overnight lows will remain humid into the upper 70s
At this point, confidence is highest for the heaviest rain to develop first across the foothills, the Interstate 40 corridor, and the northern Piedmont before shifting farther south and east. The Charlotte metro and communities along Interstate 85 are currently trending toward seeing the most active weather during the early to mid-morning hours. Gusty winds and frequent lightning will also be a play.
Tuesday gives us a little bit of a breather. Most communities will stay dry for much of the day, although we can't completely rule out an isolated afternoon shower. The bigger story will once again be the heat. Afternoon highs climb into the mid-90s, and with all that humidity hanging around, it'll feel more like the lower 100s.
Sunday looks very similar, although storm coverage will be more widespread as the front lingers nearby. Expect another warm and humid start with temperatures climbing into the lower 90s during the afternoon.
Friday is shaping up to be another scorcher and our hottest day of the week. Expect plenty of sunshine from start to finish with afternoon temperatures climbing to near 100°. Add in the increasing humidity, and it'll feel more like 105 degrees during the hottest part of the afternoon. If you're planning to spend any time outdoors, take frequent breaks, drink plenty of water, and try to avoid strenuous activities.
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