North Carolina — Cold rain dots windshields this morning, but the bigger concern arrives after sunset. Temperatures fall quickly, and wet pavement begins to harden into slick patches across central North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect this evening and lasts into Thursday morning. Rain is expected to transition to a wintry mix, including light snow and sleet, with minor ice glazing possible. Snow accumulations remain light, generally up to one inch, but impacts may be outsized.
The greatest risk targets the Piedmont, including Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill. Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, may turn slick as temperatures drop below freezing. Travel conditions could deteriorate quickly after dark as moisture freezes on untreated surfaces.
By Thursday morning, lingering light snow remains possible before conditions gradually improve. To be fair, sunshine returns later in the day, but cold air lingers. Any melting during daylight hours may refreeze again after sunset, raising renewed concerns for black ice.
Friday brings a short break. Skies turn brighter and temperatures rebound into the upper 40s. Even then, another weak system may brush the area with light rain chances by afternoon. Drivers should stay alert, especially during early morning and late-night travel windows.
Looking ahead, the weekend trends quieter but colder. Saturday turns sunny and blustery, with highs in the low 40s and crisp winds. Beyond that, early signs point toward a warming trend late next week. The 6–10 day outlook hints at above-normal temperatures, offering a preview of early spring across the Southeast.
Plan extra time if traveling tonight or Thursday morning. Watch bridges closely and slow down. Seeing slick spots near you? Share what you’re noticing.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Raleigh, NC
- Today: Rain developing, high near 43°F
- Thursday: Slight chance of snow early, high near 39°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 48°F
- Saturday: Sunny and breezy, high near 43°F
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cool, high near 43°F
