North Carolina – Snowflakes begin to thicken across central North Carolina as cold air locks into place, turning familiar roads slick and quiet. The air feels sharp and heavy, and conditions are lining up for one of the most disruptive winter stretches of the season.
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Raleigh–Durham area through early Sunday. Snow totals of 2 to 4 inches are possible, with locally higher amounts north and west of the Triangle. An Extreme Cold Watch and Cold Weather Advisory follow close behind, with wind chills dropping to near zero or below by Sunday morning.
Across Wake, Durham, and surrounding counties, snow is expected to intensify through Saturday, accompanied by gusty winds that reduce visibility. Roads like I-40, I-440, and US-1 could become treacherous as snow compacts and freezes. Flash freezing is a major concern once temperatures fall Saturday night, especially where daytime melting occurs.
Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset. Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary driving and prepare for delayed response times. Power outages remain possible where snow loads combine with wind.
By Sunday afternoon, skies clear, but the cold lingers. Morning lows fall into the teens, and any untreated surface remains icy. Slow improvement arrives early next week as temperatures climb closer to seasonal levels.
Beyond the weekend, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook suggests colder-than-normal air persists across the East while precipitation trends ease. The frozen Great Lakes continue feeding cold air south, reinforcing winter’s grip.
Residents should dress in layers, protect pets and pipes, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh, NC
Saturday: Snow, high near 22°F
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 30°F
Monday: Sunny, high near 38°F
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 43°F
Wednesday: Chance of rain and snow, high near 44°F
