Raleigh, North Carolina – Bitter cold conditions combined with fresh snowfall are creating dangerous travel and exposure risks across central North Carolina Sunday, particularly along major routes including Interstate 40, Interstate 440, and U.S. Highway 1.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Sunday, with wind chill values dropping as low as 5 degrees below zero in parts of the region. Despite sunshine, afternoon highs are expected to remain only in the mid-20s to around 30 degrees, offering little relief from the cold.
Forecasters report that overnight lows fell into the single digits to lower teens, allowing melted snow to refreeze on roadways. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are especially vulnerable to black ice, which may not be visible to drivers. Travel conditions are expected to remain hazardous through the day and into tonight as temperatures drop again after sunset.
The National Weather Service cautions that wind chills in the single digits to teens can cause frostbite on exposed skin in a short period of time. Residents heading outdoors for winter recreation are urged to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outside.
Road conditions along I-40, I-440, I-540, and surrounding secondary roads may remain slick even where pavement appears clear. Officials advise slowing down, increasing following distance, and avoiding sudden braking.
Emergency managers also remind residents to bring pets indoors, protect exposed pipes, and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable to prolonged cold. While snow accumulation has ended, the combination of lingering ice and extreme cold continues to pose risks.
Temperatures are expected to gradually moderate later Monday, but officials emphasize that winter hazards remain a concern until sustained above-freezing conditions return.
