North Carolina – Cold air presses low over central North Carolina this morning, whitening car roofs and stiffening bridges before sunrise. Sidewalks crunch in shaded spots. The chill feels settled, and it sets the stage for a more serious winter turn as the week unfolds.
According to the National Weather Service office in Raleigh, a Hazardous Weather Outlook remains in effect for central North Carolina. Black ice may linger on roads and walkways, especially where temperatures struggle to rise above freezing. Wind chills dip into the single digits and teens, keeping conditions harsh through the period.
High pressure briefly stabilizes the region, but it does not bring warmth. Afternoon highs climb into the upper 30s to near 40, while nights fall sharply back into the teens and lower 20s. Any daytime melting may refreeze quickly after sunset, raising flash-freeze concerns on untreated roads. Drivers should use caution on bridges, rural routes, and shaded stretches of I-40 and I-440.
Attention now shifts to Friday night into the weekend. Meteorologists are tracking an unusually strong system that could bring snow into central North Carolina. Snow chances rise late Friday, with the potential for heavy snow Saturday into Saturday night. Confidence is growing that cold air will be in place, increasing the risk for travel disruptions. Conditions may deteriorate quickly after dark. Plan ahead if traveling and keep emergency supplies in vehicles.
Beyond the weekend, colder air lingers while precipitation chances ease early next week. Farther south, much warmer air surges into the Southeast, sharpening contrasts that often fuel active winter weather nearby.
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh, North Carolina
Today: Mostly sunny, high near 40
Tonight: Mostly clear, low near 18
Thursday: Sunny, high near 37
Friday: Mostly cloudy, high near 39, snow possible late
Saturday: Snow likely, high near 26, heavy snow possible
