North Carolina – Mild air greets early risers as clouds drift over the Triangle, a quiet start before noticeable changes arrive. It feels more like early fall than late December, but that warmth will not last as the first full weekend of winter unfolds.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures climb well above average today and Saturday, with highs pushing the upper 60s around Raleigh and Durham. Skies stay mostly cloudy at times, but dry conditions help weekend travel through much of Saturday.
By Sunday, the pattern shifts. Clouds thicken, and scattered rain chances return by afternoon as highs slip back toward the upper 50s. Roads may turn slick during passing showers, especially along I-40, I-440, and U.S. 1. Drivers heading home from holiday trips should plan extra time and watch for reduced visibility.
The bigger change arrives early next week. Warmer air peaks Monday with highs near the low 70s, followed by steady rain and gusty conditions. Behind that system, colder air settles in fast. Nighttime temperatures fall toward freezing by midweek, raising early concerns for patchy frost and cold mornings as New Year’s Eve approaches.
While snow is not expected in central North Carolina, the warm-to-cold transition matters. Wet pavement followed by colder nights can create isolated slick spots on bridges and shaded roads. Residents should stay weather-aware, especially those traveling late or early during New Year’s week 2026.
Meteorologists continue monitoring late-week trends, but for now, expect changing conditions that demand flexibility. Keep rain gear handy, plan travel windows carefully, and be ready for colder mornings ahead.
Traveling this weekend or into New Year’s week? Share what conditions feel like where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Raleigh, NC
Today: Mostly cloudy, highs near 52°F
Saturday: Sunny and warm, highs near 69°F
Sunday: Cloudy with rain chances, highs near 58°F
Monday: Rain likely, breezy, highs near 72°F
Tuesday: Sunny and cooler, highs near 45°F
