Raleigh, NC – A thick blanket of fog sits low over Wake County this morning, muting headlights and slowing traffic across U.S. 70 and I-40. Beneath it, freezing air grips the region, turning damp pavement into a slick sheen as the first real taste of December winter settles over central North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, both a Dense Fog Advisory and a Winter Weather Advisory remain in effect through noon Monday, with conditions expected to improve by afternoon. Forecasters warn of visibility below one-quarter mile and light snow accumulations up to half an inch, particularly north of the Triangle. Roads, sidewalks, and elevated surfaces may ice rapidly as temperatures hover near 32°F early, then fall into the 20s by nightfall.
Meteorologists say the mix of rain, snow, and fog could make for hazardous travel conditions during the morning commute, especially on bridges and untreated secondary roads. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, use low beams, and allow extra stopping distance.
By Tuesday, sunshine returns with highs near 41°F, but the cold lingers. Lows will dip into the low 20s, marking one of the season’s coldest mornings so far. Temperatures will rebound slightly midweek, reaching the 50s by Thursday before another potential cool-down next weekend as Arctic air builds to the north.
The early-week chill signals a decisive shift toward winter across the Carolinas — a reminder to check heaters, protect outdoor pipes, and stay alert for refreezing after dark.
Five-Day Outlook (Raleigh, NC):
- Monday: Rain and snow mix, high 38°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 41°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 54°F.
- Thursday: Clear, high 50°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high 45°F.
