Raleigh, NC – A calm, cold morning across the Triangle hints at changes brewing for the end of the week. The air feels still now, but a developing storm system will bring a wintry mix to central North Carolina by early Friday — potentially creating slick spots during the morning commute on I-40 and local roadways.
According to the National Weather Service, today stays bright with highs near 48°F and light northeast winds. Clouds begin thickening Thursday as warmer air pushes north, driving highs into the mid-50s. Late Thursday night into Friday morning, however, that mild spell will meet a colder air mass dropping south — the perfect setup for rain to briefly mix with snow.
Meteorologists say the best window for a rain-to-snow changeover runs from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. Friday, mainly north and west of Raleigh. While any snow accumulation should stay minimal — less than half an inch — bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads could freeze quickly as surface temps fall near 33°F.
Rain lingers through Friday afternoon before tapering off by nightfall. The weekend looks unsettled, with scattered showers Saturday and gradual clearing by Sunday. Highs remain in the upper 40s to near 50°F — chilly but seasonable for early December.
Five-Day Outlook (Raleigh-Durham Airport)
Thursday: Increasing clouds, high 54°F.
Friday: Rain and snow early, high 39°F.
Saturday: Chance of rain, high 49°F.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 50°F.
Monday: Partly sunny, high 47°F.
