Good evening, North Carolina. We’re wrapping up the day for you with the most important stories you need to know and your weather outlook. 

Your Weather Planner

While the eastern side of the state saw sunshine today, clouds and cooler temperatures were noted across the west. No one gets left out on the rain chances Saturday, and some will have a threat for a few strong storms.

The setup shows a surface low pressure to our northwest and a cold front dragging through the state. Ahead of the front, showers and storms will be possible, mostly during the morning and early afternoon. While some across the southern and eastern portion of the state have a small severe storm risk, the chance for widespread thunderstorms looks limited.

Temperatures will have a big part to play in the instability. Mid-40s to low 50s are likely as we start the day. Most of the state, from the mountains to the Piedmont will feel temperatures rise through the 50s into the low and mid-60s after the heavy rain moves out. The only spots that look warmer in the afternoon will be east of Interstate 95, where mid- and upper 60s are possible.

The heavy rain will clear out by afternoon, and the cold front will clear the state during the evening. This will bring a pronounced cooldown and string of dry days.

Get your full forecast: Charlotte | Triad | Triangle | Coastal | Mountains

1. N.C. GOP chair Michael Whatley, Lara Trump picked to lead RNC

The Republican National Committee voted to install Donald Trump's choices to lead the party: North Carolina GOP leader Michael Whatley as its new chairman and Lara Trump, the former president's daughter-in-law, as co-chair. The move effectively completes Donald Trump's takeover of the Republican Party.

2. Even after the primary elections, the fate of voter ID remains unsettled in N.C.

A state district court hearing on Friday is the latest step in continuing challenges to North Carolina's voter ID requirements.

3. Best in Bloom: NCDOT honors the most colorful part of any N.C. drive

The N.C. Department of Transportation's wildflower program began as a part of the state's highway beautification initiative. 

4. Tying it Together with Tim Boyum podcast: Andrew Yang on forming a successful third party

Yang, who also ran for mayor of New York City, launched the Forward Party in 2021 and has candidates on the ballot in North Carolina this year.

Your Notes for the Weekend

Saturday

• The Carolina Hurricanes travel to the New Jersey Devils for a 12:30 p.m. faceoff
• The Wake Forest basketball team hosts Clemson at 6 p.m.
• Duke hosts UNC at 6:30 p.m.
• N.C. State travels to Pittsburgh for a 7:45 p.m. tipoff
• The Charlotte Hornets host the Brooklyn Nets at 7 p.m.
• Joe Biden on campaign trail in Georgia
• Donald Trump delivers remarks in Georgia
• Razzie Award winners announced
• Oscar Week series of panel events concludes with Makeup & Hairstyling nominees
• 65th anniversary of the first Barbie doll released

Sunday

• The Carolina Hurricanes host the Calgary Flames at 5:30 p.m
• Daylight saving time begins
• The Oscars
• Muslim month of Ramadan begins