Rain Ahead: What to Expect from Thursday’s Cooler Storm Setup

By Steve Monday, Chief Forecaster – Rowan County Weather
Published June 4, 2025

After a warm and mostly cloudy Wednesday, cooler temperatures and increased rain chances are on the way for Thursday across Rowan County. A shift in our weather pattern will bring patchy fog in the morning, followed by a chance of showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon.

Cooler Air Arrives Thursday

Highs on Thursday will struggle to reach the low 70s, with most locations topping out around 72°. That’s a noticeable drop from the low 80s we’ve seen to start the week. The reason? A weak front is drifting south into central North Carolina, pulling in slightly cooler air and helping to develop widespread cloud cover.

When to Expect Rain & Storms

• Morning: Patchy fog is likely before 9 AM, especially in low-lying and rural areas. Light rain is possible but not widespread.

• Late Morning to Early Afternoon (10 AM – 2 PM): Showers become more scattered and measurable.

• Afternoon (2 PM – 7 PM): This is the most likely time for a few thunderstorms to develop, with the chance of heavier downpours. Widespread severe weather is not expected, but brief gusty winds and isolated lightning are possible.

Rain chances sit at 50%, with rainfall amounts between a quarter and half an inch possible in the Rowan County area.

What About Thursday Night?

Rain tapers off after sunset, and skies remain mostly cloudy overnight. Lows dip to the low 60s, and only a 20% chance of a lingering shower remains.

Looking Ahead

By Friday, we’ll rebound into the 80s with partial sunshine and only slight rain chances. But Saturday evening brings a higher chance for storms, so outdoor plans may need adjusting.