RALEIGH, NC – Frost glistened across lawns and rooftops early this morning as the Freeze Warning winds down across central North Carolina. Temperatures dipped into the low 20s before dawn, capping one of the coldest mornings of the fall season so far. But as the region thaws, a new hazard takes shape: increased fire danger fueled by dry air, steady winds, and crisp sunshine.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, the freeze warning expires by 9 a.m., but conditions remain risky for outdoor burning through late afternoon. Gusts could reach 30 mph across Wake, Johnston, and Harnett Counties, combining with very low humidity to create rapid fire spread potential. Officials urge residents to delay debris burning and use caution with any outdoor flames. The air stays bone-dry, making brush and pine needles ignite quickly.
Despite the chill, skies will stay clear and bright with highs near 48 degrees — a brisk but comfortable Veterans Day. By Wednesday, temperatures rebound into the low 60s as high pressure settles in, marking a sharp end to this early-week cold snap. The late-week stretch turns sunny and warmer, peaking near 70 by the weekend — ideal for fall clean-up, early decorating, or travel planning.
Looking ahead, forecasters are watching long-range signals for another cool push next week, possibly tied to a stronger front before Thanksgiving. No snow yet for the Carolinas, but the pattern shift hints that winter’s first touch may not be far off.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC:
Wed: 61/43 – Sunny; milder afternoon breeze.
Thu: 62/38 – Mostly sunny; calm and dry.
Fri: 66/40 – Bright skies; pleasant late-fall warmth.
Sat: 66/49 – Mostly sunny; ideal outdoor day.
Sun: 72/53 – Partly cloudy; warmer trend continues, dry through evening.
