North Carolina steps into the morning with a cool, gray sky stretched over Raleigh as light clouds race east across the Triangle. The air feels damp and steady, carrying the early signal of a December Weather Alert that will push across central North Carolina by Tuesday, bringing widespread rain and possible travel delays for commuters returning to routine after the holiday stretch.
According to the National Weather Service, today stays mostly cloudy with a brief afternoon shower possible. Highs reach the mid-50s before calmer, drier air arrives Monday. That lull acts as the early sign of the stronger moisture plume arriving Tuesday. Meteorologists now track a system expected to deliver a half-inch to one inch of rainfall, with the heaviest falling between late morning and early evening. Drivers on I-40, I-440, and U.S. 1 should prepare for slower traffic, pooling water, and reduced visibility during heavier bursts.
Models hint at the slightest chance of colder pockets mixing into northern areas late Tuesday night, but Raleigh remains too warm for a true winter changeover. Still, temperatures drop to the upper 20s by early Wednesday, raising flash-freeze concerns on bridges and shaded streets if lingering puddles refreeze. Keep coats, gloves, and umbrellas close; conditions may shift fast as the system exits.
For now, Monday provides a brief break with sunshine and upper-40s air—good weather for residents catching up on errands or early Christmas decorating before rain returns.
Five-Day Outlook
Today: Mostly cloudy, high 56; slight rain chance late.
Monday: Mostly sunny, high 49.
Tuesday: Rain likely; 0.5–1″ possible. High 50.
Wednesday: Sunny, high 48; cold start near 29.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 54.
