Raleigh, North Carolina – A calm and seasonably mild Monday is taking shape across central North Carolina as early-morning clouds and pockets of fog gradually clear, making way for brighter skies and warmer afternoon temperatures.
Morning Conditions Across Central North Carolina
According to the National Weather Service, low clouds and patchy fog developed overnight and were most noticeable around sunrise, particularly across the western Piedmont. Areas such as Winston-Salem, Roxboro, and surrounding rural communities experienced brief reductions in visibility, mainly in low-lying spots and near open fields.
Forecasters noted that these conditions were typical for early January, forming under calm winds and residual surface moisture. As the morning progressed, cloud cover thinned steadily, allowing visibility to improve by mid-morning.
Sunshine Returns by Midday
By late morning into midday, skies across much of central North Carolina transitioned to partly cloudy, with filtered sunshine becoming more widespread. No precipitation is expected, and the atmosphere remains stable, supporting a quiet and uneventful weather day.
Drivers heading out early were advised to remain alert for lingering fog on rural roads, bridges, and shaded areas, but travel conditions improved rapidly as temperatures rose and clouds broke apart.
Afternoon Temperatures: A Mild January Day
Afternoon highs are expected to vary by region, reflecting typical wintertime temperature gradients across the state:
- Northwestern Piedmont (Winston-Salem, Roxboro): Low 50s
- Triangle region (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill): Mid to upper 50s
- Southeastern areas (Fayetteville, Goldsboro, Sandhills): Low 60s
These readings sit slightly above early-January averages, offering a pleasant break from colder winter conditions. Winds remain light, adding to the comfortable feel through the afternoon.
Travel and Safety Outlook
With no rain, snow, or wintry weather expected, overall travel conditions are favorable across central North Carolina. Any fog that formed earlier dissipates quickly, reducing the risk of prolonged visibility issues.
Officials continue to recommend basic winter driving awareness during early morning hours, especially for commuters traveling through rural or wooded areas where fog tends to linger longer.
Overnight and Tuesday Forecast
Tonight, temperatures will cool into the upper 30s to low 40s, keeping conditions relatively mild for early January. Skies remain partly cloudy overnight, with no significant weather impacts anticipated.
Looking ahead to Tuesday, forecasters expect another quiet and mild day, with temperatures staying above seasonal norms. Cloud cover increases gradually later in the day as attention turns to a developing weather system later in the week, which may bring changing conditions to the region.
What to Expect Going Forward
For now, central North Carolina remains under a stable weather pattern, offering several days of calm conditions before more active weather potentially arrives.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the sunshine while staying informed on upcoming forecasts as the week progresses. Share your experiences in the comments below.
