First frost of autumn arrives Tuesday in inland North Carolina

WITN reported that clear skies and calm winds will allow overnight temperatures to drop into the mid 30s Tuesday for many inland areas, resulting in the first frost of the autumn 2026 season.

Coastal areas, including those near Elizabeth City, will see temperatures in the mid to upper 40s Tuesday night, which is chilly but not cold enough for frost.

Sunshine will warm temperatures quickly during the day, and a high-pressure system moving off the east coast Tuesday evening will bring southerly winds and warmer overnight lows in the 40s for the next few days.

A cold front is expected late Thursday into Friday, bringing spotty, light showers and much colder air. Rainfall will be limited to about a quarter of an inch or less, which will have little effect on the ongoing drought conditions.

Following the front, highs will drop from the low 70s to the mid to upper 50s, and overnight lows will likely fall near or below freezing Saturday and Sunday nights, marking the first potential freeze of the season.

Skies will remain clear and sunny over the weekend, but residents should prepare for chilly mornings and evenings.