Raleigh, NC – Leaves scatter and flags whip in the breeze across the Triangle this week as strong southwesterly winds build through midweek. By Wednesday afternoon, gusts could reach 40 to 45 mph in parts of central North Carolina, marking one of the windiest stretches of early December so far.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, winds will peak Wednesday afternoon before easing into the evening. While no major hazardous weather is expected, the agency warns that light debris, unsecured outdoor items, and high-profile vehicles could be affected by the gusts — particularly along I-40, I-85, and US-1 corridors.
Temperatures will climb briefly into the low 50s Wednesday before dipping into the 30s overnight. The end of the week turns cooler and calmer, with highs in the upper 40s and lows near freezing. By Friday morning, brisk air and clear skies will make for crisp commutes — perfect for early holiday prep and outdoor decorating, but chilly enough to remind residents that winter’s edge is here.
Forecasters say North Carolina will stay mostly dry through the weekend, with sunny skies and highs returning to the mid-50s Saturday. A broader cold pattern across the eastern U.S. could bring a December cold snap to the Mid-Atlantic and New England states next week, but the Tar Heel State looks to remain frost-free — for now.
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh, NC
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 46°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 49°F, breezy.
- Saturday: Sunny and mild, high near 54°F.
- Sunday: Clear and crisp, low near 30°F, high around 50°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 48°F.
