Breath turns visible, pavement cools fast, and the weekend mood shifts toward winter preparation. By Sunday, December 14, a developing cold snap will bring near-freezing temperatures, brisk air, and a low-end chance for light snow or flurries across central North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a weak disturbance may produce brief light snow or flurries early Sunday. Little accumulation is expected, but even minimal flakes can matter when temperatures hover near 32 degrees. Wet roads could cool quickly after sunset, raising early-season concerns for slick spots.
High temperatures Sunday are expected in the mid-40s, with colder air settling in by Sunday night. Lows are projected to fall into the teens and lower 20s by late Sunday night into Monday morning. Wind chill values may dip into the single digits in more rural areas, especially north and west of Raleigh. This marks one of the coldest stretches so far this December.
Residents should plan ahead. Bundle pets, protect exposed pipes, and allow extra travel time Sunday evening. Bridges and elevated roadways cool fastest and may develop patchy ice if moisture lingers. While widespread travel disruptions are not expected, conditions can change quickly after dark.
Looking ahead, the pattern turns more wintry. Arctic air remains in place into early next week, keeping mornings bitterly cold. While Monday and Tuesday appear dry, meteorologists are tracking additional systems later in the week that could bring another rain-to-snow setup. It’s an early signal that winter weather is settling in.
Five-Day Snapshot for Central North Carolina
- Sunday: Slight snow or rain mix possible, high mid-40s
- Monday: Sunny, colder, high upper 30s
- Tuesday: Dry, high near 50
- Wednesday: Milder, high mid-50s
- Thursday: Dry, cooler morning, gradual warming
