North Carolina – A biting northwest wind sweeps across Raleigh this morning, cutting through jackets and pushing wind chills into the low 20s. The air feels sharp and dry, but changes are brewing by evening as a strong cold front approaches central North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a cold front will move through later today and could briefly flip rain to snow during the mid to late evening hours. Ground temperatures remain above freezing, so little to no accumulation is expected. Still, a trace of snow on elevated surfaces cannot be ruled out. Wind gusts between 30 and 45 mph will develop, strong enough to blow around unsecured objects and make travel tricky on exposed roadways.
Drivers along I-40, I-440, and U.S. 1 should expect crosswinds, especially on bridges and overpasses. Even a brief burst of snow near 32 degrees can create slick spots if pavement cools quickly. This is prime time for flash freezing when melted moisture refreezes after sunset. Plan ahead and secure loose outdoor items.
Skies clear quickly Tuesday with sunshine and highs near 47 degrees. Wednesday turns milder, climbing to around 60 under mostly cloudy skies. Rain chances increase Thursday into early Friday, with highs in the mid to upper 60s.
By next weekend, temperatures surge into the lower 60s again, and longer-range guidance hints at above-normal warmth into early March. Spring warmth is knocking on the door.
Five Day Outlook for Raleigh, NC
Tuesday: Increasing clouds, high 47°F.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 60°F.
Thursday: Rain likely, high 66°F.
Friday: Chance of rain early, high 61°F.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 63°F.
