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

Your Weather Planner

We're back in a period of active weather with a cold front moving across the state through Friday evening. These thunderstorms will bring a threat of large hail and damaging winds.

Storms will arrive late in some areas but should taper off early Friday morning. We'll end up in the 60s at sunrise for a warm start to the day. After a brief break in the rain late in the morning, storms will redevelop in the afternoon as temperatures peak in the upper 70s to lower 80s.

Showers and storms may not be widespread, so some areas will miss the rain, but in any case be prepared for another chance for severe weather as storms move through the afternoon and evening.

In addition to heavy rainfall and frequent lightning, storms will again bring a risk for large hail and damaging winds. These should start to dissipate after sunset.

This will be followed by a cooler weekend with highs in the lower to middle 70s on Saturday and Sunday. Be prepared for the chance for rain to increase Sunday.

Get the full forecast for areas across the state: Charlotte | Triad | Triangle | Coastal | Mountains

Today's Big Stories

1. Robert Prevost is selected as first American pope in history

Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, a missionary born in Chicago who spent his career ministering in Peru and leads the Vatican’s powerful office of bishops, took the name Leo XIV.

2. Fayetteville selfie bank robber convicted on multiple charges

Karim Brown, 32, went on a bank robbery spree from December 2021 to January 2022 in Hope Mills, Angier, Fuquay-Varina and Fayetteville, court records show.

3. District seeks rise in teacher pay supplement as N.C. drops in salary ranking

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is requesting Mecklenburg County fund an increased local supplement for the upcoming school year as part of the district's proposed budget. 

4. Trump pulls nomination of Ed Martin, who defended Jan. 6 rioters, for D.C. U.S. attorney

North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis had said he wouldn’t support the nomination because of Martin’s defense of Capitol rioters on Jan. 6, 2021. Other Republicans seemed likely to oppose Martin’s nomination, as well.

5. Tying it Together: RNC Chair Michael Whatley on FEMA review efforts, Trump's first 100 days

Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley, the North Carolina native was just appointed to a FEMA Review Council, talks about that panel’s efforts and President Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office.

Your Notes for Tomorrow

  • Russian military parade for World War II Victory Day
  • Court hearing for Texas megachurch pastor charged with child sex abuse
  • Court hearing for Menendez brothers as push to free them continues
Linework is among the most dangerous jobs in the country, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Workers are exposed to high-voltage power lines and harsh weather conditions. As they navigate the risks, Concord Electric Systems says a unique competition prepares its crews for more than just a trophy.