DURHAM, N.C. — Despite growing social media chatter predicting snow across North Carolina next week, meteorologists say the forecasts circulating online are not accurate. According to the ABC11 First Alert Weather Team, it’s simply going to be too warm for any snowfall to occur.
Online Speculation vs. Reality
Rumors of potential snowfall began after some long-range global weather models briefly suggested a wintry mix over parts of the state next week. However, forecasters warn that models beyond seven days out are unreliable and often misrepresent future conditions.
“There’s been a lot of chatter about snow, but the bottom line is: it’s not happening,” meteorologists said.
Why Snow Isn’t Likely
An area of low pressure is expected to move through the Southeast U.S. early next week — from Monday into Tuesday — bringing rain, not snow.
Forecasters explain that no cold air will be in place ahead of the system, meaning surface and upper-level temperatures will remain too warm to support frozen precipitation.
Additionally, the track of the low-pressure system will move directly over North Carolina, pulling in relatively mild air across much of the region.
“For us to see snow here in Central North Carolina, cold air has to already be in place before moisture moves in,” meteorologists noted. “That’s not the case this time.”
When Snow Is More Likely
Historically, the best window for measurable snow in Central and Eastern North Carolina comes later in the winter — typically January and February — when Arctic air masses are more likely to push southward ahead of storm systems.
Meteorologists urge residents to avoid relying on long-range social media forecasts, which often exaggerate or misinterpret early weather model data.
What to Expect Next Week
- Timing: Monday through Tuesday
- Weather: Periods of rain; no snow expected
- Temperatures: Above freezing — staying in the 40s and 50s for most of the region
- Conditions: Mild and cloudy with occasional showers
The ABC11 First Alert Weather Team says it will continue to monitor any potential winter weather patterns, but as of now, there’s no indication of snow anywhere in North Carolina next week.
“When there’s real cause for concern regarding winter weather, we’ll alert you well in advance,” forecasters assured.
Stay tuned to HonkNews.com and local forecasts for verified weather updates across North Carolina.