North Carolina — A cold, quiet morning settles over the Piedmont as pale moonlight fades above Charlotte. Thermometers hover near 39 degrees, and wind chills dip lower, reminding residents winter has officially arrived.
Sunshine quickly takes over today. By late morning, skies turn bright, and temperatures climb into the low 50s. Roads across I-77 and I-85 stay dry, but early commuters should watch shaded bridges for brief frost. For now, winter hazards remain limited.
Tonight stays calm but chilly. Clouds increase, holding lows in the mid-30s. That sets the stage for a sharp warm-up Tuesday. Sunshine returns, southwest winds strengthen, and highs surge into the low 60s by afternoon. It will feel noticeably milder on sidewalks and open fields.
By Wednesday, winter loosens its grip entirely. Temperatures approach 70 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Meteorologists call this an early sign of a broader December pattern, with warm air dominating the Southeast while colder systems track north.
Christmas Eve looks quiet and comfortable. Expect filtered sunshine, light winds, and highs near 70 degrees across Charlotte and nearby South Carolina communities. Christmas travel conditions appear favorable, with no rain or freezing concerns expected.
Christmas Day stays mild and mostly sunny. Outdoor plans should proceed smoothly, though mornings remain cool. To be fair, colder nights still allow patchy frost in rural spots.
Take action: dress in layers early, then shed them by afternoon. Watch for early-morning slick spots, especially on bridges.
5-Day Outlook for Charlotte, NC
- Monday: Sunny, high near 53
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, warmer, high near 63
- Wednesday: Sunny, springlike, high near 69
- Christmas Day: Mostly sunny, high near 70
- Thursday: Partly cloudy, high near 73
