Morehead City, NC – A biting wind sweeps off the coast this morning, rattling loose branches and driving temperatures deep into the 30s. As the sun rises, conditions will stay crisp and dry across Eastern North Carolina — but the National Weather Service warns that this brief calm could quickly turn hazardous by tonight as temperatures tumble toward the low 20s.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport–Morehead City, a Hazardous Weather Outlook is in effect for much of Eastern North Carolina. Strong northwest winds up to 20 mph will combine with very dry air today, creating an elevated fire risk for grassy or wooded areas. Residents should avoid outdoor burning and secure lightweight items ahead of gusts that could easily spread flames.
After sunset, the bigger story will be the cold. Temperatures are expected to plunge into the upper teens and low 20s inland — cold enough to damage unprotected pipes, pets, and plants. The Weather Service warns that poorly insulated infrastructure could be at risk through Saturday morning, especially in areas north of Highway 70 and across Craven, Pitt, and Lenoir counties.
This weekend stays dry but cold, with gradual warming beginning Sunday. Clouds will increase late Sunday with rain likely by Monday night — marking the next transition toward a wetter, milder pattern to start December.
Residents should prepare now for hard-freeze conditions and monitor updates if traveling early Saturday morning, when frost and icy spots could form on rural roads.
5-Day Outlook (Newport, NC)
Friday: Sunny, high 47°F, gusty northwest winds.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 49°F.
Sunday: Increasing clouds, high 67°F.
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high 55°F.
Tuesday: Rain likely, high 63°F.
