Multiple fronts impacting the area

Friday will kick off on a calm and comfortable note across the region. Most of the day should stay dry, with a mix of sun and clouds. As we move toward the evening, expect the sky to turn a bit grayer as clouds gradually thicken ahead of an approaching front.

By Friday night into early Saturday, a weak cold front will slide through the area, bringing a few light rain showers, mainly across the mountain communities. If you’re in or near the foothills, you may notice some light to moderate rain during the early hours of Saturday, with breaks of sunshine peeking through the clouds at times.

For those in the Charlotte metro area, the front’s impact will be minimal. A few sprinkles or brief drizzles can’t be ruled out, but widespread rain isn’t expected.

Temperatures will continue to run above normal for early November, with afternoon highs reaching the low to mid-70s. Despite the front’s passage, no significant cooldown is expected. So, if you have outdoor plans, Friday still looks great, and even with the passing front Saturday, most of the weekend should be perfectly fine for fall activities.

Big Weather Shift Ahead: Coldest Air of the Season on the Way

After a stretch of mild November days, we’re about to flip the switch in a big way. A major pattern change happens bringing the coldest air of the season so far.

Saturday Evening: A Few Storms Possible

As the next strong cold front approaches, there’s a low risk for a few strong storms Saturday evening. Most areas will simply see scattered showers and a general thunderstorm chance, especially south of I-85 between mid and late evening. While widespread severe weather isn’t expected, a rumble of thunder or a brief downpour could move through before midnight. Rain may linger into early Sunday morning before tapering off.

Sunday: Windy and Turning Colder

By Sunday, that front will sweep east across the Carolinas. Behind it, strong northwesterly winds will funnel in much colder, drier air. The mountains will feel it first, with gusts topping 35 mph possible through the afternoon. Temperatures will drop steadily through the day, signaling that our fall chill has officially arrived.

Sunday Night: A Wintry Hint

Once the colder air rushes in, mountain flurries may develop Sunday night into early Monday. While no significant accumulation is expected, it’ll be enough to remind us that winter isn’t far away.

Monday: The Coldest Day Since February

Get ready for a shock to the system Monday’s highs will struggle to reach the 40s, marking our coldest day since late February. Add a steady breeze, and it’ll feel even chillier.

Monday Night: Widespread Freeze

By Monday night, the cold deepens. Temperatures will drop well below freezing across the region, with lows plunging into the 20s for the first time since early March in Charlotte and the surrounding areas. Sensitive plants and outdoor pipes will need protection as this is the first true freeze of the season.

Mountain Snow Returns

The mountains will continue to see off-and-on snow showers from Sunday night through Tuesday. Some light accumulation is possible in the higher elevations — a wintry preview before Thanksgiving season even arrives.