RALEIGH, N.C. — State transportation crews are gearing up for the first potential wintry weather event of the season as the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) begins brining major roadways Thursday ahead of Friday’s WRAL Weather Alert Day.
Winter Weather Possible North and West of Raleigh
Forecasters at the WRAL Severe Weather Center say precipitation is expected to begin early Friday, with snow and sleet possible north of Raleigh and cold rain for central and southern parts of the state.
Meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth explained that the greatest impacts will likely occur Friday morning, particularly across counties near the North Carolina–Virginia border, where temperatures will be cold enough to support a wintry mix from around 3 a.m. through noon.
“The biggest impacts will likely come in the first half of the day, and then it just changes over to kind of a nasty cold rain,” Wilmoth said.
Meanwhile, WRAL meteorologist Mike Maze noted that communities from Raleigh southward can expect mostly chilly rain and wet roads during the Friday commute.
DOT Brining Operations Underway Thursday
With the system expected to arrive sooner than originally forecast, NCDOT crews will begin spreading brine — a mixture of salt and water used to prevent ice formation — on bridges, overpasses, and key travel corridors Thursday afternoon.
DOT spokeswoman Kim Deaner said the agency is prioritizing elevated and high-traffic areas such as Interstate 440, Capital Boulevard, and U.S. Highway 264.
“We will start brining tomorrow, once the temperature gets warm enough to do that,” Deaner said. “We’re going to hit all our major interstates, especially elevated surfaces.”
She added that additional staff will be on standby early Friday to respond to any hazardous conditions that develop overnight.
“We’re all going to be working extra to make sure that things are taken care of and the public is informed and safe on our roads,” Deaner said.
Travel Advisory for Friday Morning
Officials warn that even light snow or freezing rain could make Friday’s morning commute tricky, especially in northern and western counties. Drivers are urged to avoid travel if possible and to allow extra time if venturing out during the morning hours.
“If we wake up Friday morning and the weather looks sketchy, people should just stay home if they can,” Deaner said.
Looking Ahead
While snow accumulation is expected to remain light — mainly on bridges and grassy areas — the combination of freezing temperatures and moisture could still cause slick conditions during the early morning hours.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and road condition updates throughout Thursday and Friday.
Stay tuned to HonkNews.com for real-time updates on road treatments, weather alerts, and the latest developments on North Carolina’s winter weather system.