North Carolina greets the morning with mild air and quiet roads, but changes are already lining up.
Clouds hang overhead across the Charlotte area as temperatures hold near 50 degrees early. It feels more like early spring than January, and the warmth builds quickly through the day.
Skies brighten at times today, pushing highs into the mid to upper 60s. Travel remains smooth through daylight hours, and conditions stay dry. The calm does not last long. By late Friday, meteorologists are tracking a growing rain signal that begins reshaping weekend plans.
Showers develop Friday afternoon and become more widespread by evening. Roads turn slick during peak travel times, especially along I-77, I-85, and I-485. Rain continues Friday night, with steadier periods possible into Saturday morning.
Saturday brings the most impactful weather. Rain likely persists through much of the day, keeping visibility reduced and pavement wet. Highs climb into the low to mid-70s, marking a sharp January warm-up. While snow is not expected, winter hazards still matter. Standing water and spray increase accident risk, especially during heavier rain bursts.
Saturday night stays damp, and showers may linger into early Sunday. By Sunday afternoon, skies begin to clear. Temperatures fall back toward the mid-50s, signaling a pattern change. Once the rain ends, cooler air settles in quickly.
Sunday night brings a bigger concern. Lows drop into the upper 20s, creating a freeze risk across the region. Any leftover moisture on roads, bridges, or sidewalks may refreeze, leading to black ice before Monday morning. Drivers should slow down and remain alert, especially on elevated surfaces.
Next week starts quieter and cooler. Sunshine returns Monday with highs near the upper 40s. Mornings feel crisp, but daylight continues to increase as January progresses.
Plan ahead: expect rain delays this weekend and watch for freezing conditions late Sunday night.
Five-Day Outlook (Charlotte, NC)
- Today: Mostly sunny, mild, high near 66°F
- Friday: Clouds increase, chance of rain late, high near 71°F
- Saturday: Rain likely, warm, high near 74°F
- Sunday: Clearing and cooler, high near 56°F
- Monday: Sunny and cooler, high near 48°F
