North Carolina starts the day wrapped in a sharp chill that feels more January than February.
Frost clings to rooftops, and cold air settles low across the Triangle early this morning.
In Raleigh, temperatures began near 16°F, with calm winds allowing cold air to linger. According to the National Weather Service, clear skies overnight helped temperatures fall quickly, creating a hard freeze across central North Carolina.
Roads remain dry, but bridges and shaded surfaces stay cold longer. Drivers should remain cautious early, especially in low-lying areas. Pets, plants, and exposed pipes feel the strain during these colder starts.
The pattern shifts fast. Sunshine dominates today, and temperatures climb into the lower 40s by afternoon. Calm conditions make the warming noticeable, even if the air still feels crisp.
By Tuesday, the change becomes dramatic. Highs surge into the mid-60s, driven by a strengthening warm front and southwest flow. Jackets feel optional by midday, a sharp contrast from the morning freeze just 24 hours earlier.
Attention turns to Wednesday, when clouds increase and a chance of rain develops, mainly before early afternoon. Rain chances remain light, but wet pavement could affect the midday commute. No winter precipitation is expected, as temperatures rise into the low 60s.
Late week stays mild. Highs settle into the upper 40s and low 50s Thursday, with dry conditions returning. By Friday and Saturday, additional rain chances appear, though temperatures remain well above freezing.
Looking into the 6–10 day window, signals continue to favor above-normal February temperatures, hinting at an early taste of spring across much of the Southeast.
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh:
- Today: Sunny, high near 43°F
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 65°F
- Wednesday: Chance of rain, high near 61°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 52°F
- Friday: Chance of rain, high near 49°F
