Raleigh, North Carolina – Confidence is increasing that a powerful winter storm will impact the Carolinas and much of the East Coast this weekend, raising the risk of hazardous travel, strong winds, and significant snowfall across central North Carolina.
According to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center, an impactful winter storm is likely to develop Friday and persist through Sunday, with the highest confidence for moderate to heavy snow across portions of the Southern Appalachians and the Carolinas. The Raleigh area, including corridors along Interstate 40, Interstate 95, and I-440, falls within a zone where winter weather impacts are increasingly possible.
Forecast guidance indicates a 30 to 60 percent chance of at least moderate snowfall, which could result in difficult driving conditions, especially where snow overlaps with strong winds. The WPC warns that blowing snow and reduced visibility may develop as winds increase, particularly Saturday.
In addition to snow, the rapidly strengthening storm system is expected to produce strong and gusty winds across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Along the coast, including eastern North Carolina, powerful onshore winds coinciding with high tides could lead to coastal flooding and damaging waves through the weekend.
Forecasters note there is still uncertainty regarding the exact storm track, particularly how far south the heaviest snow extends and how impacts evolve after the system passes Cape Hatteras Saturday night. Even small shifts could significantly change local outcomes.
The storm will be accompanied by prolonged extreme cold, with Arctic air spreading south behind the system. This increases the risk of icy roads, power disruptions, and cold-related hazards into early next week.
The developing situation is especially important for commuters, weekend travelers, students, and outdoor workers across the region.
Residents are urged to monitor updates from local National Weather Service offices and prepare now for potential winter weather impacts.
