News Summary
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has forecasted a colder-than-normal winter for North Carolina, with significant snowfall expected statewide. Residents will encounter notably lower temperatures, particularly in mountainous areas, with the coldest days projected in December, January, and February. Snowfall predictions include 2-3 inches in mountainous regions and lighter amounts south of I-85. Governor Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency due to impending wintry weather as preparations are underway for icy road conditions.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Cold and Snowy Winter Predicted by Old Farmer’s Almanac
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its winter forecast for North Carolina, predicting a colder-than-normal season with significant snowfall expected across the state. The forecast suggests that North Carolina residents will experience notably colder temperatures and snowy conditions, particularly in the mountainous regions and during key periods in mid- to late December, early January, and early February.
Temperature Expectations and Regional Differences
In Raleigh, the average minimum temperature during December has historically hovered around 34 degrees Fahrenheit, with average daytime highs reaching approximately 55 degrees. However, this winter is projected to be colder than usual, especially during the predicted coldest days. January temperatures are expected to drop further, with average lows falling below freezing and maximum temperatures decreasing by more than 2.5 degrees compared to December averages. Similar patterns are forecasted for Charlotte, where average high temperatures for December are about 54.9 degrees, and lows typically around 34.5 degrees. January in Charlotte is also expected to bring colder conditions, with overnight lows dropping below freezing more frequently.
Peak Cold Periods and Snowfall Predictions
The Almanac forecasts the coldest days in North Carolina to occur in mid-to-late December, early and late January, and early February. These periods are also expected to coincide with the most significant snowfall. In the mountainous regions, snow accumulations could reach between 2-3 inches, while the I-40 corridor may see 1-2 inches of snow. Areas south of I-85 might experience lighter accumulations, ranging from a coating up to an inch. The upcoming snow system is expected to be quick-moving, arriving as early as Wednesday morning and tapering away by Thursday morning.
Regional Weather Conditions and Responses
Charlotte saw temperatures ascend into the 50s before plummeting into the upper 30s on Wednesday and Thursday. The forecast indicates that the wintry weather could begin midweek, with snow, sleet, and freezing rain accompanying the cold front. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has been mobilizing equipment to treat roads in anticipation of hazardous travel, and many secondary roads in affected areas are already reported as impassable. Drivers are advised to exercise caution while traveling during the forecasted inclement weather.
Government Alerts and Community Measures
In response to the approaching winter weather, Governor Josh Stein has issued a State of Emergency for the state. Several weather alerts, including Winter Weather Advisories, are in effect for central North Carolina counties. The ABC11 Weather Team has warned residents about wind chills dropping between 7 and 15 degrees, increasing hypothermia risks. Some schools have announced cancellations or remote learning days to safeguard students from the upcoming cold and snow.
Precipitation Patterns and Longer-Range Climate Trends
The Old Farmer’s Almanac bases its forecasts on a blend of solar science, climatology, and meteorology, analyzing long-term weather patterns such as El Niño and La Niña. In recent years, the Almanac has demonstrated accuracy by predicting snowfall in the Triangle area of North Carolina in late February of last year. Its previous winter forecast anticipated warmer conditions in western North Carolina and wetter conditions in the east, with above-average snowfall across the Southeastern United States.
Meanwhile, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center has issued only short-term forecasts through November. Their outlook indicates above-normal temperatures for September, October, and November, along with increased precipitation, especially during September, the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, affecting much of central and eastern North Carolina.
Current and Future Conditions
While specific long-range forecasts from NOAA are limited, meteorologists generally issue temperature and precipitation predictions within a week of expected weather systems. As of now, North Carolina is experiencing a quick-moving winter system that is likely to bring impacting weather conditions through late week. Temperatures are expected to fluctuate, with initial drops giving way to modest rises into the 40s and 50s over the weekend, providing some relief from the cold snap.
The upcoming winter forecast underscores a challenging season, with colder temperatures, snow, and associated travel disruptions forecasted to affect residents across North Carolina in the coming months.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- News & Observer
- Wikipedia: Weather Forecast
- WBTV
- Google Search: North Carolina Weather Forecast
- ABC11
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Climate
- Greenville Online
- Google News: Old Farmers Almanac Weather Prediction
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
