Raleigh, NC — The weekend before Christmas is getting off to a bright and calm start across the Raleigh area, with plenty of sunshine and seasonable temperatures expected Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, Saturday, December 20, will feature sunny skies across central North Carolina, making it an ideal day for outdoor activities, errands, and pre-holiday travel. High temperatures in Raleigh and surrounding communities are forecast to reach the low to mid-50s, which is typical for mid-December.
Forecasters say light winds and dry conditions will keep the day feeling pleasant, especially during the afternoon hours. The clear weather comes as a welcome break following recent unsettled patterns across parts of the Southeast.
As the sun sets, temperatures will cool quickly under clear skies. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the low to mid-30s, meaning residents heading out late or early Sunday morning should plan for a chilly start. The National Weather Service recommends grabbing a jacket for evening activities as temperatures drop after sunset.
No rain or wintry precipitation is expected, and road conditions across the Raleigh metro area should remain dry and favorable for travel. The calm weather pattern is good news for those traveling locally or hosting outdoor gatherings during the busy holiday weekend.
Looking ahead, forecasters say this stretch of quiet weather will help set the tone heading into Christmas week, though temperature trends and any approaching systems will continue to be monitored closely.
While the daytime warmth may feel comfortable, the combination of clear skies and cold nights could lead to patchy frost in colder, rural areas late tonight and early Sunday.
