WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Heavy clouds and mild temperatures are expected across North Carolina this weekend as a coastal low forms off the Southeast coast, bringing a flood threat to beaches and cooler-than-normal highs inland.

Weather Setup

A cold front swept through the Piedmont Triad earlier this week, leaving behind cooler and drier air. Temperatures are expected to run roughly 10 degrees below normal across much of the state, with highs in the mid-60s and lows dipping into the 40s in parts of Greensboro and Winston-Salem.

For early October, typical highs are in the mid-70s with lows near 55 degrees. Meteorologist Michelle Kennedy noted that a strong Canadian high-pressure system is maintaining these below-average readings. “Mostly sunny skies and low humidity will stick around until the weekend,” she said in her WXII12 forecast.

Developing Coastal Low Could Bring Heavy Rain

By Saturday, attention turns to the southeast coast, where a weak low-pressure system is projected to develop and strengthen. This system will pull moisture from the warm Atlantic, producing scattered showers and storms near the coast.

As the system merges with a stalled front just offshore, storms are expected to organize, keeping most of the heavy rainfall along the Outer Banks and immediate coastal communities. According to WXII12, rainfall totals could reach 3 to 5 inches in the hardest-hit areas, with flooding possible in low-lying zones.

Flooding Threat for Coastal Communities

Forecasters say that high tides and coastal inundation may combine to flood barrier islands and beach towns such as Nags Head, Corolla, and Emerald Isle. Some rainbands could reach as far inland as the Piedmont Triad, but the mountains and foothills are likely to stay mostly dry.

“The track of this storm will ultimately determine which areas see the steadiest rainfall,” Kennedy added in a post on X. “The Triad forecast is trending wetter, but the heavier precipitation will stay closer to the coast.”

Cool, Cloudy Weekend Ahead

Residents across the Piedmont and Foothills should expect cloudier skies and scattered light showers through the weekend. Temperatures will remain mild, with highs around the mid-60s to low 70s. The mountains will stay mostly dry but under persistent cloud cover.

Beachgoers are urged to use caution due to rough surf, rip currents, and possible beach erosion along the Outer Banks and Crystal Coast.

Final Outlook

North Carolinians can look forward to a cooler and cloudy weekend as the coastal low develops offshore. Coastal regions should prepare for localized flooding and high surf, while inland communities can expect scattered light showers and crisp fall temperatures.

If you’re along the coast, share your storm photos or weather updates in the comments and stay connected with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for more weather coverage and safety updates.