(NCNN WeatherCenter)– Humidity will start to increase with Wednesday and Thursday being classified as “tropical.” Wednesday will be even hotter, with a high around 90 degrees. There is also a Level 1 risk for severe weather in place as a cold front inches closer to our area, leaving the atmosphere unsettled, muggy and warm.

A cold front to our west is headed our way and bringing us a good chance for storms.

Showers and storms will be most likely Wednesday evening, with wind damage the biggest threat. The humidity will also be on the rise.

“On Wednesday, everything changes,” said NCNN meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner. “[Humidity] is just full on for us Wednesday and Thursday. It’s going to feel very sticky.”

By 1 p.m., we’ll see storms developing and rain will be widespread by mid-afternoon.

“Anytime before 7 or 8 o’ clock will be our best chance to see severe storms,” Gardner said.

The cold front will pass Thursday, which will feature a high around 90 degrees. Showers and storms could develop ahead of the front, mainly across the southeast near the coast, although the Triangle and Sandhills will be mostly dry.

Counties southeast of the Triangle could see up to an inch-and-a-half of rain this week, where rain is needed. Areas from Goldsboro to towards Clinton are currently in a severe drought, Gardner said.

83% of Wayne County is in what is called a “D-2 Severe Drought” where dryland crop yields are low, wildfires are difficult to extinguish, voluntary and mandatory water use restrictions are implemented; and people are asked to refrain from nonessential water use.

Behind the front, we will start to dry out and temperatures will warm back into the 90s.

Another cold front swings through the area on Saturday, bringing the possibility of scattered storms and a drop in temperatures.

The weekend will not be a washout, however, and Sunday is expected to be drier.