Cold air could keep spilling into NC through April 4
If the unusual weather pattern continues, cold air could keep spilling into North Carolina through April 4, according to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner.
"That pattern, which is enhanced by the jet stream, is not going to change any time soon," she said. "That takes us through a good chunk of spring break for some people. So, ugh, I'm still pretty upset about that."
The weather pattern is being driven by an unusually strong area of high pressure over Canada, forcing the cold air down from the north.
Temperatures were rebounding a bit Friday but won't get past the mid-50s. In addition to the cold air, North Carolina residents can expect rain this weekend with the possibility of some wintry weather late Sunday.
On Saturday, more cloud cover moves in, bringing the chance for showers, especially south of Raleigh. Easter egg hunters at Raleigh's Pullen Park and elsewhere will want to bundle up on their quests.
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"Saturday might be OK. Sunday, no, just don’t even plan anything outside," Gardner said. "On Sunday, it just looks like an all-day rain. Late Sunday, early Monday, could see a little wintry mix near the Virginia border."
The normal high temperature for Raleigh this time of year is the mid-60s, which is not expected to happen in at least the next seven days.
"I think I'm going to stay home and get a nice cup of hot chocolate or coffee," said WRAL meteorologist Nate Johnson.
Besides cold air and rain, a low dew point has made the air dry. "If you're anything like me, you've been slathering on the lotion and lip balm," Johnson said.
