We know the question on your mind, Raleighites — when’s it going to get cool? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center , we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for September, October, and November. While exact fall weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what fall will bring.
Reminder: The first day of fall is on Saturday, Sept. 23.
Don’t break out those sweaters just yet in Raleigh.
Map via the NOAA
🌡️ Temperature
Think warm. This fall, Raleigh has a 33-40% chance of temperatures being higher than normal, which is lower than last year’s prediction of 40-50%.
🌨️ Precipitation
Expect slightly more precipitation. Raleigh has a 40-50% chance of seeing higher-than-average rainfall predicted for this fall.
What September has in store
Typically in Raleigh, September’s temperatures fluctuate between an average low of 63° and an average high of 82°, but expect to see more of those near-80° days this year. If you aren’t a fan of the heat, we have some good news: The average high drops ~8° in September. Pro tip: September has an average daily maximum UV index of 5, so don’t slack on the sunscreen.
Onward with October
In October, the average high and low temps are between 72° + 50°. There isn’t much rainfall, so plan for warm, clear days, perfect for strolling through Moore Square with a Ghostface Cold Brew from Sir Walter’s in hand. Did you know? October is the second driest month in Raleigh. On average, there’s only around 3.1 inches of precipitation during the spooky season.
Next up, November
Historically, average highs in November drop ~10° to 62°, with an average low of 41°. Get ready for moderately chilly days with a gentle breeze. Fun fact: Raleigh had its earliest snowfall of at least 0.1 inches on Nov. 6, 1953.