North Carolina – Damp pavement and low gray clouds mark a warm, unsettled start across Raleigh this morning as Thanksgiving travel intensifies statewide. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms could briefly slow commuters on I-40, I-440, and U.S. 70 through midday, with visibility reduced during heavier downpours.
According to the National Weather Service, showers should ease by afternoon, giving way to partial clearing and unseasonably warm highs near 75°F. Southwest winds could gust above 20 mph before shifting north later, signaling the start of a sharp cooldown. By Thanksgiving morning, much drier air moves in, leaving behind clear skies and a crisp, late-autumn feel.
Thanksgiving Day itself turns sunny and pleasant, with highs in the low 60s—ideal for travel, parade watching, or early feasts outdoors. But that warmth won’t last. A cold snap slides into the Triangle by Thursday night, dropping temperatures near freezing and bringing back that unmistakable early-winter bite.
Friday’s highs will struggle to reach the mid-40s under bright skies and steady northwest winds. Those heading out for Black Friday deals should bundle up—especially before sunrise when wind chills may dip into the 20s. The weekend stays dry, calm, and cool, perfect for hanging holiday lights or raking the last of the leaves.
Meteorologists are watching a developing Arctic front expected to sweep across much of the U.S. next week. Models hint at heavy snow across the upper Midwest and Great Lakes as early as December 1, with cold air likely spilling eastward soon after. That could mean another winter-like pattern for North Carolina as early December begins.
Five-Day Outlook (Wed–Sun)
• Today: Scattered showers, warm, high 75°F.
• Thursday: Sunny, 62°F.
• Friday: Sunny, 45°F, breezy.
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, 45°F.
• Sunday: Increasing clouds, high 47°F.
