North Carolina — Soft sunshine is breaking through scattered clouds over Charlotte this morning, giving the Queen City a warm start and a clear sign that early spring is arriving across the Carolinas.
Temperatures are already mild across Mecklenburg County and surrounding communities. The air feels noticeably warmer than recent days, and afternoon highs are expected to reach about 78°F.
Commuters moving through I-77, I-85, and I-485 will find generally smooth travel today. Roads remain dry and visibility is good across the Charlotte metro area.
Skies stay partly sunny through much of the day. A light southwest breeze may gust near 20 mph during the afternoon.
This warm pattern continues into Friday. High temperatures climb close to 80°F, though a few isolated afternoon showers could develop later in the day. Morning commuters may also notice patchy fog before sunshine returns.
The weekend brings more noticeable changes.
Saturday starts partly sunny and warm again with highs near 79°F. However, moisture gradually increases during the afternoon. A 30% chance of showers develops later in the day.
Rain chances climb further Saturday night and Sunday.
Meteorologists say a disturbance moving across the Southeast will bring scattered showers and possible thunderstorms Sunday afternoon, with highs again near 79°F.
Wet pavement could develop quickly on Charlotte’s busiest corridors including I-77, I-85, and Independence Boulevard during heavier bursts of rain.
Early Sunday morning also brings a seasonal change many people look forward to. At 2 a.m., clocks move forward one hour as Daylight Saving Time begins.
That shift means longer daylight evenings across North Carolina throughout March.
Looking ahead, the early-week pattern stays mild. Highs remain in the upper 70s, with occasional showers possible Monday before warmer air builds later next week.
Spring warmth is clearly taking hold across the Carolinas.
How warm does it feel in your neighborhood this morning around Charlotte?
Five-Day Outlook – Charlotte, North Carolina
Friday: Mostly sunny with slight shower chance. High 80°F
Saturday: Partly sunny, chance of showers late. High 79°F
Sunday: Showers and possible storms. High 79°F
Monday: Chance of showers. High 78°F
Tuesday: Mostly sunny and warmer. High 83°F
