North Carolina – Cold air grips the Triangle this morning, stiffening trees and leaving pavement dry but deceptive. Clouds build quietly overhead. Winter weather is taking shape, and conditions could change fast heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday afternoon for central North Carolina, including Raleigh. Heavy snow is possible, with widespread totals between 5 and 8 inches. Wind gusts up to 35 mph could worsen impacts by blowing snow and stressing trees and power lines.
Temperatures remain cold enough to support snow once precipitation begins. Snow chances increase Friday night, with steadier snowfall expected Saturday. Roads may become snow-covered quickly, especially after sunset, when surface temperatures drop into the 20s. Flash freezing is a concern if any melting occurs earlier in the day.
Saturday looks like the most disruptive period. Snow is likely through much of the day, and travel along I-40, I-440, U.S. 1, and secondary roads could become dangerous or even impossible at times. The weight of wet snow combined with wind may lead to scattered power outages across the region.
By Sunday, snow chances gradually taper, but cold air lingers. Untreated roads could remain slick through the morning, even as skies begin to brighten. Residents are urged to complete preparations now, limit travel during peak snowfall, and monitor updates as confidence in totals increases.
Beyond the weekend, precipitation chances fall. Cold mornings persist early next week before a gradual warm-up develops toward February.
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh, North Carolina
Friday: Increasing clouds, high near 37
Saturday: Snow likely, windy, high near 25
Sunday: Chance of snow early, high near 29
Monday: Sunny, cold, high near 37
Tuesday: Sunny, milder, high near 41
