Raleigh, North Carolina – Temperatures will surge to near-record levels Friday before crashing into near-freezing territory this weekend, creating a dramatic swing that could impact plants and outdoor plans.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, highs will climb into the upper 80s Friday across central North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville, and Greensboro. This early-season heat will quickly give way to a sharp cooldown, with overnight lows dropping into the upper 20s to low 30s by late Saturday night into Sunday morning.
This rapid shift increases the risk of frost and potential damage to sensitive vegetation that may have emerged during the recent warm stretch. Areas like Roxboro, Rocky Mount, and Goldsboro could see temperatures near or below freezing for several hours.
Daytime highs will rebound into the 60s and 70s by Sunday and continue warming into next week, returning to the 80s by midweek.
Residents are urged to protect plants, bring pets indoors during colder nights, and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
The temperature rollercoaster will continue into next week, with additional updates possible as conditions fluctuate.
