This week brings potential for severe weather beginning this evening and then following a brief cool down Tuesday, temperatures between 80  to 90 through Friday.

Then, according to National Weather Service Lead Forecaster Phillip Badgett, a potential cold wave is expected the second week in April.

In a Sunday briefing Badgett said to be prepared for possible damaging wind and isolated tornadoes late this afternoon and evening. 

More of Sunday's heat will be back over the southeastern states with a strong upper ridge late this week and with it temperatures 15-25 degrees above normal.

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“All the current and expected warmth will continue to lead to rapid spring green-up, fruit tree bloom out, and early crop growth and development,” he said, however adding, “Indications are the warmth may be followed by a cold wave by the end of the first week of April into the second week of April, possibly bringing freeze and frost conditions to North Carolina.” 

RDU averages around 70 and 45 for highs and lows in early April. 

But models suggest temps 7-12 degrees below normal by April 12-13 — corresponding to lows in the mid 30s. The Triad and Roxboro would be possibly below 32, including all the mountains. 

“The potential pattern change is something to watch in the next two weeks,” Badgett said.

Weather hazards include: Severe potential March 31 and again later in the week or weekend. Possible near record cold and freeze/frost conditions in April.

Models have depicted some snow with a deep cold upper trough April 13-14 but the snow would be mostly in the northern North Carolina mountains.