Raleigh, North Carolina – Dry and slightly chilly conditions are expected across central North Carolina as residents ring in the New Year, according to the National Weather Service in Raleigh.
NWS forecasts show mostly sunny skies and dry weather today, with afternoon highs ranging from the mid-40s to around 50 degrees across the region. Temperatures will begin falling quickly after sunset as clouds increase this evening.
According to the National Weather Service, New Year’s Eve nighttime temperatures will drop into the mid to upper 30s by midnight, making for cool but manageable conditions for outdoor celebrations. Winds are expected to remain light, limiting wind chill concerns despite the cooler air.
Forecast data indicates readings near 38 degrees in Raleigh and Durham, 36 to 37 degrees in Chapel Hill and Cary, and mid-30s across Wake, Durham, and Orange counties as the calendar turns to 2026. No precipitation is expected overnight.
Road conditions are expected to remain favorable across Interstate 40, Interstate 440, Interstate 540, and U.S. Highway 1, with dry pavement anticipated through the overnight hours and into New Year’s Day. No freezing rain, snow, or ice impacts are forecast.
By New Year’s Day (Thursday), skies will remain partly to mostly cloudy, with continued dry weather. Morning temperatures will start cool before gradually warming during the afternoon, maintaining seasonable conditions for early 2026.
The National Weather Service advises those celebrating outdoors late tonight to dress in layers and plan for cooler temperatures after sunset, especially for extended outdoor activities.
For commuters, service workers, and New Year’s Eve travelers, the primary weather concern will be cool overnight temperatures rather than travel hazards, providing a quiet and uneventful transition into the New Year.
