Morehead City, North Carolina – A sharp weather shift is underway along the Crystal Coast, as significantly cooler and drier air moves into eastern North Carolina, bringing gusty winds and a return to winterlike conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, cooler air arrived Sunday afternoon, accompanied by gusty winds that will persist through the remainder of the day. The change follows a recent stretch of milder, rainy conditions across the region.
Residents are advised to bundle up tonight and Monday, as temperatures fall quickly after sunset. Overnight lows are expected to dip into the upper 20s to lower 30s across inland areas, with slightly milder readings closer to the immediate coast. These temperatures mark a return to winter conditions after a brief warm spell.
By Monday, daytime temperatures will struggle to recover. Forecast highs across Carteret County and surrounding coastal communities are expected to reach only the upper 40s to near 50 degrees. Notably, forecasters say Monday’s high temperatures will be colder than the low temperatures recorded over the weekend, underscoring the abrupt cooldown.
The gusty winds may make it feel even colder, particularly for those spending extended time outdoors or traveling along exposed roadways and bridges. While no winter weather advisories are currently in effect, the colder conditions could impact sensitive vegetation.
The National Weather Service recommends bringing tropical or sensitive plants indoors and taking basic cold-weather precautions for pets and outdoor plumbing.
Commuters, students, and early-shift workers should prepare for a brisk start to the week, especially during the Monday morning hours.
