RALEIGH, N.C. – North Carolina travelers heading into the Labor Day weekend can expect plenty of sunshine, hot afternoons, and busy roads. With highs climbing into the mid-80s, drivers on I-40 and I-440 should prepare for glare and extra congestion through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, conditions stay calm and mostly sunny from Saturday into Labor Day. Friday night will dip to 64°F before a hot, dry Saturday with highs near 83°F. Winds remain light, offering little relief from afternoon heat.
The warm, steady pattern continues Sunday with highs around 82°F. Skies stay mostly sunny, perfect for outdoor events but potentially tough on drivers navigating peak holiday traffic. Overnight lows hover in the low 60s, offering mild evenings for camping or backyard gatherings.
Labor Day itself holds steady with highs near 80°F under mostly sunny skies. Roads into Raleigh and Durham are expected to stay crowded, especially along I-40 near RDU Airport and Cary. Travelers should keep water on hand, allow extra time, and watch for sudden slowdowns caused by holiday congestion.
By Tuesday, highs rebound near 81°F with more sunshine, keeping the warm trend in place well into midweek.
Residents can plan confidently for outdoor plans this weekend, but officials urge caution on crowded highways. With no rain in sight, dry conditions could also increase grass fire risks in rural areas.
Clear skies and highs near 80°F remain the dominant pattern through Thursday, offering a smooth, summer-like stretch for the Triangle.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, N.C.:
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 83°F, low 63°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 82°F, low 60°F.
- Labor Day (Monday): Mostly sunny, high 80°F, low 59°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 81°F, low 61°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 81°F, low 60°F.
