RALEIGH, N.C. – Low clouds, drizzle, and a thickening fog layer signal a soggy stretch ahead for the Triangle, but brighter skies are waiting just in time for Halloween. Damp pavement and misty headlights may slow traffic today and tonight across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill before a clearing pattern sweeps in by Thursday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, widespread rain and patchy fog will persist into early Thursday as a cold front crosses central North Carolina. Thunder is possible before dawn Thursday, with rainfall totals ranging from a quarter to half an inch. Winds from the northeast near 10 mph will shift westerly by afternoon, ushering in drier, clearer air by late day.
Friday’s Halloween looks seasonably mild — sunny skies, light breezes, and highs near the low 60s, ideal for trick-or-treating and outdoor events. The ground may still feel damp from earlier rain, but visibility improves sharply, and humidity drops as cooler, crisp air settles in. By Saturday, temperatures will dip into the 40s early, marking one of the chilliest mornings of the season so far.
Drivers along I-40 and I-440 should expect slower commutes through this morning and early Thursday, with visibility occasionally below a quarter mile in denser fog. Gardeners and pet owners should prepare for cooler nights by the weekend as late-fall air strengthens its grip.
A quiet pattern holds into early next week — then November’s chill looks poised to take over.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC:
Wed: 56/54 – Cloudy; patchy fog, light rain developing.
Thu: 60/46 – Morning showers, breezy; clearing late.
Fri: 62/41 – Sunny, calm; ideal trick-or-treat weather.
Sat: 64/42 – Bright skies; crisp fall air.
Sun: 64/44 – Partly cloudy; early November coolness builds.
