A mix of clouds and light showers is giving way to sunshine across Raleigh and the greater Triangle area just in time for Patriot Day, Thursday, September 11. While tonight might feel a bit damp and cool, Thursday promises a pleasant and comfortable turnaround—perfect for ceremonies, outdoor events, and travel.
Mild Rain Tonight, Sunshine Returns by Thursday
The National Weather Service in Raleigh is predicting a 20% chance of light showers after 10 p.m. tonight. These are expected to be brief and isolated, but they may dampen roadways and briefly reduce visibility along I-40, I-440, and local highways.
By early morning, temperatures will settle into the low 60s, creating a cool start to the day. Commuters should be cautious on potentially slick roads and keep an eye out for patchy fog, especially in low-lying and rural areas.
Perfect Weather for Patriot Day Events
Thursday brings a beautiful weather shift, with sunshine breaking through by midmorning. Highs will reach around 80°F across Raleigh, Cary, and Durham, with a light north breeze at 6 mph keeping the air crisp and refreshing.
If you’re attending a Patriot Day ceremony or planning an outdoor activity:
Expect dry, mild, and sunny conditions
Dress in light layers for the cool morning and warmer afternoon
No umbrellas needed, as skies will stay mostly clear into the night
Thursday night will remain calm and dry, with a low near 61°F, ideal for any evening remembrances or outdoor family time.
A Beautiful Weekend Ahead
This stretch of dry, sunny weather will continue through the weekend, making it perfect for:
Community festivals and fairs
College football games
Outdoor markets and parks
Hiking or biking trails in Wake County
Here’s your 5-day weather forecast for Raleigh:
| Day | High Temp | Low Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday | 80°F | 61°F | Partly sunny, mild winds |
| Friday | 82°F | 60°F | Sunny, warm and pleasant |
| Saturday | 82°F | 60°F | Sunny, ideal outdoor day |
| Sunday | 85°F | 62°F | Sunny, warmer afternoon |
| Monday | 87°F | 62°F | Sunny, summer-like feel |
Weekend Travel and Safety Tips
While there are no major warnings in effect, drivers should still take care tonight if light rain makes roads slippery. As the weekend approaches, early morning fog may develop, especially near lakes, wooded areas, and farmland.
Safety tips to keep in mind:
Drive with headlights in low visibility
Slow down on damp or foggy roads
Use caution near crosswalks and school zones
Looking Into Next Week
Warm and dry conditions are expected to stick around into early next week, with Monday’s highs nearing 87°F. It will feel more like summer again, but with less humidity, making it comfortable for most outdoor plans.
There is no significant rain expected until early next week, so enjoy the stretch of near-perfect late-summer weather while it lasts!
