Newport, North Carolina – Residents across eastern North Carolina are waking up to areas of low clouds and patchy dense fog Friday morning before a warm, spring-like afternoon arrives.
The National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City says low clouds and fog developed across much of eastern North Carolina early Friday, reducing visibility in some locations during the morning hours.
Forecasters expect the fog and low clouds to linger through the early morning commute before gradually dissipating by mid to late morning.
Drivers traveling through communities including Greenville, New Bern, Morehead City, Jacksonville, and Kinston may encounter reduced visibility and slower travel conditions early in the day.
Once the fog clears, temperatures are expected to rise well above average for early March, bringing a warm and pleasant afternoon across the region.
High temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 70s to lower 80s inland, with slightly cooler readings closer to the Outer Banks and the immediate coastline.
Cities such as Greenville, Kinston, and New Bern could reach the low 80s, while coastal communities including Hatteras, Rodanthe, and Ocracoke may remain in the upper 60s to lower 70s due to marine influences.
Winds will generally remain light, with southwesterly winds around 5 to 10 mph and occasional gusts up to 15 mph during the afternoon.
Meteorologists also note that a backdoor cold front may shift winds across parts of the Outer Banks and nearby coastal counties later today, turning them more from the southeast.
Overall, the day is expected to feature improving skies, warmer temperatures, and relatively quiet weather once the morning fog clears.
Residents are still encouraged to use caution while driving early in the morning when visibility may be reduced in foggy areas.
