MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. – The morning chill grips coastal lawns in a silver glaze, car windshields iced in delicate patterns before dawn. A Frost Advisory remains in effect early today across coastal and inland Carteret, Jones, Craven, and Onslow counties — a cold snap marking one of eastern North Carolina’s first brushes with winter air.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, temperatures dipped into the low 30s before sunrise, cold enough to damage sensitive vegetation if left unprotected. Residents are urged to cover tender plants and disconnect outdoor hoses to prevent early-season frost damage. Once the frost lifts, clouds will build quickly ahead of an approaching disturbance bringing late-day rain chances.
Scattered showers will develop this afternoon and evening, with higher chances toward the coast near Atlantic Beach and Swansboro. Rain may linger into Monday morning before clearing, with totals under one inch. Winds turn northeast at 10 to 15 mph, adding a damp chill to the coastal air. By Tuesday, sunshine returns and highs reach the upper 60s to near 70 — a welcome recovery after a frosty, gray start to the week.
NOAA also cautions about rising water levels during the King Tide cycle later this week. Elevated tides could bring minor coastal flooding near estuaries and low-lying shorelines Thursday into Friday. The rest of the week looks bright and mild, offering ideal weather for cleanup, fishing, and early holiday travel plans.
After this frosty wake-up call, coastal North Carolina will rebound with warm sun and light winds — a short, sweet reminder that winter is only beginning to stir.
Five-Day Forecast for Morehead City, NC:
Sun: 67/55 – Areas of frost early; 30% chance of rain late.
Mon: 65/48 – Cloudy; 50% chance of rain, breezy.
Tue: 65/45 – Sunny; mild and calm.
Wed: 70/50 – Mostly sunny; pleasant.
Thu: 72/50 – Sunny; minor coastal flooding possible with King Tide.
