North Carolina – Headlights reflect off damp pavement across central North Carolina this MLK Day, a warning sign for drivers heading out early. Temperatures sit below freezing around Raleigh, and lingering moisture has turned quiet roads slick in spots. Black ice blends into asphalt, catching commuters off guard near bridges, overpasses, and less-traveled streets.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, patches of black ice are possible this morning as temperatures hover in the upper 20s. Winds stay light, but cold air settles in firmly. Lows dip into the teens and low 20s again tonight and Tuesday night, keeping refreeze concerns in play even after sunshine returns.
Daytime conditions improve gradually. Highs climb into the mid-40s by Wednesday, bringing brief melting during the afternoon. That warmth is short-lived. Meteorologists are now tracking a developing winter pattern that could bring impactful weather this weekend into early next week. Guidance points to another surge of cold air with increasing chances for rain, snow, or a mix as temperatures hover near freezing.
Drivers should slow down this morning and allow extra time, especially along I-40, I-440, and neighborhood connectors. Walkers should use handrails and avoid shaded sidewalks. To be fair, conditions look calmer midweek, but the break may not last long.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors colder-than-normal temperatures across the eastern U.S., with precipitation chances rising into the Mid-Atlantic and Carolinas. Additional weather alerts are likely as timing and impacts sharpen.
Have you noticed icy patches where you live, or slick spots on your commute today?
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh, NC
- Today (MLK Day): Sunny, high near 46.
- Tonight: Mostly clear, low near 23.
- Tuesday: Sunny, cooler, high near 40.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 46.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, warmer, high near 54.
