North Carolina — Gray clouds hang low over the Crystal Coast as damp air clings to streets and docks. Wet pavement shines before sunrise, but colder air is already moving in. Conditions will change fast, and drivers should stay alert.
A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for eastern North Carolina, including Morehead City and Newport, through late tonight. Light rain develops this afternoon, then mixes with freezing rain and sleet as temperatures fall. Bridges and overpasses become slick first, especially after sunset.
Surface temperatures hover near freezing this evening. That narrow window allows a light glaze of ice to form on untreated roads. Travel impacts remain localized, but even brief icing can cause spin-outs and delays along U.S. 70 and nearby coastal routes.
By Sunday, rain returns as temperatures rebound into the lower 50s. Any lingering ice melts quickly, but standing water remains on roadways. Drivers should watch for reduced visibility and ponding during heavier showers.
Cold air surges back Monday morning. Skies clear, but temperatures drop sharply. Flash freezing becomes a concern as wet pavement refreezes before sunrise. Early commuters may encounter black ice in shaded or low-lying areas.
The cold settles in through midweek. Overnight lows dip into the teens by Monday night, with daytime highs struggling to reach 40 Tuesday. Winds add a bite, especially near the water.
Looking farther ahead, long-range outlooks show below-normal temperatures holding across the Southeast while precipitation chances fade. Winter stays present, even along the coast.
Planning to drive later today or early Monday? Tell us what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook: Morehead City / Newport, North Carolina
• Sunday: Rain likely. High near 51.
• Monday: Clearing, colder. High near 40.
• Tuesday: Sunny and cold. High near 39.
• Wednesday: Sunny. High near 44.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, chilly. High near 39.
