North Carolina – Soft morning light glints off damp docks along the Newport River as a warm, salty breeze pushes across Carteret County. The air feels mild for late November, yet a hint of change lingers as Thanksgiving travel increases across US-70 and NC-24. Drivers heading out should expect thicker clouds by midday and prepare for slower stretches near coastal bridges where winds can briefly stiffen.
According to the National Weather Service Morehead City office, temperatures rise into the low 70s today with partly sunny skies. Winds stay light at first, then shift north through the afternoon as pressure changes build along the coastline. Travelers should secure loose items on boats, charge phones, and plan flexible routes, since visibility may dip in thicker cloud bands later today.
According to meteorologists, the larger travel concern arrives Friday as a disturbance slides in from the west. Moisture increases near daybreak, and scattered showers develop from New Bern to Morehead City. Though rainfall looks modest, wet pavement could slow early holiday traffic, especially near the NC-24/US-70 interchange. No winter weather appears in the cards here, but models hint at a “Winter Tease” farther north as colder air deepens over the Mid-Atlantic next week.
According to transportation officials, Saturday remains a strong window for long drives, shopping, and early holiday errands. Sunday brings brighter skies, encouraging local travelers to hit the road before heavier Thanksgiving traffic surges Monday and Tuesday. Light breezes along the Crystal Coast may still affect smaller vessels, so boaters should monitor marine statements.
After all, coastal North Carolina enters its late-fall rhythm—mild air, shifting winds, and subtle signals of bigger seasonal turns up the road. Residents should stay aware and watch for timing changes as the holiday week accelerates.
Five-Day Forecast for Newport, NC:
Sat: 74/46 – Partly sunny; breezy late.
Sun: 67/47 – Mostly sunny; smooth travel.
Mon: 87/49 – Warm and dry; increasing traffic.
Tue: 88/50 – Partly sunny; light breeze.
Wed: 70/50 – Cooler, dry; favorable travel.
