North Carolina wakes to calm air and damp ground, but a dramatic weather swing is already unfolding.
The morning feels mild, almost springlike. That warmth accelerates quickly as southerly air builds across the region.
Temperatures surge into the mid-60s today and climb even higher Friday. By afternoon, highs approach the low 70s, unusual for January 2026. The warmth feels pleasant, but it sets the stage for incoming rain and weekend travel issues.
Clouds thicken late Friday as a storm system approaches from the west. Rain chances increase by evening, especially after sunset. Roads become slick fast, and visibility may drop during heavier bursts. Commuters along I-40 and I-440 should plan for slower travel.
Rain continues into Saturday, with steadier periods expected. Temperatures peak near 75 degrees, pushing close to record territory. While no snow is expected, winter impacts still matter. Standing water, spray, and fog raise crash risks during busy daytime hours.
Conditions begin to shift Saturday night. Cooler air moves in as rain lingers. By Sunday, showers taper, but the air turns noticeably cooler. Highs fall back near 59 degrees, with clearing later in the day.
Sunday night brings the most important change. Skies clear, winds ease, and temperatures drop sharply. Lows dip near 29 degrees. Any leftover moisture on roads or sidewalks may freeze, creating black ice. Flash freezing is possible on bridges and untreated surfaces.
Looking ahead to next week, sunshine returns with colder mornings. Highs settle in the upper 40s to low 50s. Winter regains control, even as daylight stretches longer by late January in Raleigh.
What to do now: enjoy the warmth, keep rain gear ready, and slow down late weekend when temperatures fall.
Five-Day Outlook (Raleigh, NC)
- Today: Mostly sunny, high near 65°F
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, very warm, high near 73°F
- Saturday: Rain likely, warm, high near 75°F
- Sunday: Chance of rain early, cooler, high near 59°F
- Monday: Sunny, colder, high near 47°F
