Bright but Cold Today

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Another cold day is expected today as morning lows in the chilly teens and 20s give way to afternoon highs in the mid 40s, almost 10 degrees below average. High pressure situated over the Northeast will continue moving east, promoting sunny skies amidst the colder weather.

Clouds increase overnight and we could get a few light showers, mainly from the Triangle to the south and east. Models are still uncertain how far inland any rain from this storm can travel, with the 00z Euro suggesting precipitation largely stays along the coast. However, the GFS and GEM both hint that rain could sneak farther inland, and the eastern third of the state could see a period of rain.

For the Triangle, we will continue to carry a 30 chance for Tuesday morning, as any rain looks to generally stay east of the area. The greatest certainty will be closer to the coast, where an extended period of rain and showers looks probable through the evening.

For Christmas, dry and mild weather continues to seem likely, although cloudy skies look to develop and persist through the week.

Highs will generally stay in the 50s through the end of the week, gradually increasing each day. Dry weather will likely persist through the week as well.

A series of shortwaves look to develop over the Plains during the mid-to-late week and lift northeastward as upper-level ridging dominates locally. This will eventually see a return to highs near 60 for the weekend, but the next chance for precipitation varies notably amongst models.

A period of rain could be possible as early as Saturday, but may hold off until the early hours on Sunday.

Have a great day!

Steve Stewart