Charlotte, NC – North Carolina is heading into a warm and unusually quiet stretch of weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation across the state. This setup favors smooth holiday travel, dry roads, and spring-like temperatures in some regions heading toward Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, much of the state—including Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Fayetteville, and Greenville—will see temperatures running 5 to 10 degrees above seasonal averages. Afternoon highs are expected to reach the mid-50s to low 60s, with even warmer pockets near the South Carolina border.
The below-normal precipitation outlook indicates limited storm activity. While a weak disturbance may bring brief light rain or drizzle to parts of the state between December 20–21, widespread rainfall appears unlikely. Any moisture that does develop should be short-lived and too warm to produce winter weather.
In the mountains of western North Carolina, including Asheville, Boone, and the Blue Ridge Parkway corridor, temperatures will remain cooler—especially overnight—but still above typical December levels. The pattern remains too warm for snow, and only isolated light showers are expected.
Across the Piedmont and Triangle, mild and mostly dry conditions will support favorable travel for drivers along I-40, I-85, and I-77, with the only concerns being patchy fog during morning hours.
Along the coastal region, including Wilmington, Morehead City, the Outer Banks, and Jacksonville, warmer-than-usual conditions continue with highs in the 60s and limited rain risk. A breezy onshore flow may develop late in the week but will not significantly impact travel.
Overall, North Carolina is positioned for one of the smoothest holiday travel windows in the Southeast, with mild temperatures and few weather-related disruptions expected through Christmas Eve.
