North Carolina Faces Prolonged Cold Stretch as Arctic Air Drops Temperatures 5–15 Degrees Below Normal Through Midweek

NORTH CAROLINA — A noticeable shift to colder weather is expected across central North Carolina beginning Sunday and lasting through Wednesday, as a broad arctic air mass settles over the eastern United States, pushing temperatures well below seasonal averages.

Forecast data shows that high temperatures will struggle to rise out of the 30s and 40s for several consecutive days, marking one of the coldest stretches so far this winter for the region.

Coldest Days Expected Sunday and Tuesday

Temperature guidance indicates that Sunday and Tuesday will be the coldest days during this period, with daytime highs running 5 to 15 degrees below normal for mid-January.

Key temperature expectations include:

• Daytime highs: Mid-30s to mid-40s across much of central North Carolina
• Overnight lows: Dropping into the 20s, especially in outlying and rural areas
• Cold duration: At least four consecutive days of below-normal temperatures

This is not a brief cold snap, but rather a sustained period of colder-than-average weather.

What’s Driving the Cooler Pattern

The colder temperatures are the result of a strong cold front that pushed through the eastern half of the U.S., allowing colder air from the north to spill southward into the Carolinas.

Temperature anomaly data shows:

• Much of the eastern U.S. running well below average
• North Carolina firmly within the below-normal temperature zone
• Limited moderation expected until later next week

With no quick warm-up signal, confidence is high that the chill will linger.

How This Cold Could Impact Daily Life

While no significant winter storm is currently expected, the persistent cold could still have impacts across the region.

Potential concerns include:

• Higher heating demand and increased energy use
• Cold morning commutes, particularly early next week
• Freeze risk for exposed pipes and sensitive plants
• Cold stress for those spending extended time outdoors

Even daytime hours may feel uncomfortably cold due to the lack of sun and lingering chill.

How Residents Should Prepare

Residents are encouraged to take basic cold-weather precautions as the colder stretch sets in.

• Dress in warm layers, especially during mornings and evenings
• Protect pets, plants, and outdoor plumbing
• Check heating systems to ensure safe operation
• Stay informed with daily forecast updates, particularly overnight lows

Although this is not expected to be a severe winter event, extended cold can still create disruptions if unprepared.

Stay With Waldron for Continued Updates

Forecast trends will continue to be monitored as the cold pattern evolves.

Stay with Waldron for the latest North Carolina temperature updates, cold weather outlooks, and any changes that could impact travel, energy use, or daily routines across the state.