North Carolina – Flags snap hard, bare trees sway, and loose debris skitters across parking lots as strong winds surge through central North Carolina. The air feels crisp but dry, and crosswinds catch drivers off guard on open roads early this morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Wind Advisory remains in effect for much of central North Carolina until 7 p.m. Northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph. These winds follow a cold frontal passage and will remain the main impact today.
In the Raleigh-Durham area, the strongest gusts develop from mid-morning through late afternoon. High-profile vehicles may struggle on east-west routes like I-40, I-440, and U.S. 64. Tree limbs could come down, and isolated power outages remain possible where soils are shallow. Residents should secure trash cans, patio furniture, and lightweight outdoor items.
Temperatures climb only modestly today, topping out in the mid-30s despite full sunshine. Wind chills hover in the 20s, making outdoor tasks uncomfortable. By evening, winds gradually ease, but colder air settles in quickly. Lows drop to around 19 degrees tonight, cold enough for frost on exposed surfaces by early Sunday.
Sunday turns quieter but remains cool. Clouds increase later in the day, and highs stay in the upper 30s. Attention then shifts to early next week as a warming trend builds. Monday brings calmer conditions and highs near the mid-40s. By Tuesday, temperatures surge into the lower 60s, signaling a sharp February thaw.
Midweek rain chances increase as warmer air moves in, and above-normal temperatures could hold through late week. For now, plan for gusty travel today, dress in layers, and expect calmer, milder weather as the new week begins. Feeling the wind where you are? Let us know what it’s like outside.
Five-Day Outlook for Raleigh, NC
- Today: Sunny and windy; high near 36°F
- Tonight: Clear and cold; low near 19°F
- Sunday: Increasing clouds; high near 37°F
- Monday: Mostly sunny; high near 45°F
- Tuesday: Sunny and warmer; high near 62°F
