Climate ▸Forecast ▸December ▸January ▸
JanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember

Raleigh (NC) Weather and Climate: A Comprehensive Guide

The temperature in Raleigh can vary quite a bit throughout the year. Temperatures can be very warm during the warmest months, and cold during the cooler months. It also has a notably wet climate with much precipitation. Now, let’s break down all the climate details for a clearer picture.

Average maximum day and minimum night temperature

Visitors to Raleigh can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 32°C in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 11°C during cooler months like January.

At night, temperatures typically drop to an average of around -1°C during these months. Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Precipitation and rainy days

Raleigh is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1175 mm. While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. September brings wetter days averaging 136 mm of precipitation, spread over 9 rainy days.

In contrast, February experiences a drier climate, with about 70 mm of rainfall spread across 9 rainy days.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail and snow

Sunshine over the year

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Raleigh. While June receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.9 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 5.2 hours of sunlight per day. Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Forecast for Raleigh (NC)

Fri   Dec 27
9°C | 3°C
NE 2 m/s
1.5 mm
overcast and rain

overcast and rain

Sat   Dec 28
20°C | 9°C
SE 4 m/s
broken clouds and no rain

broken clouds and no rain

Sun   Dec 29
21°C | 16°C
SE 8 m/s
18 mm
overcast and thunder

overcast and thunder

The best time of year to visit Raleigh in the United States of America

During the months of April and October you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20°C and 26°C.

Other facts from our historical weather data:
  • Which is the warmest month in Raleigh?
    July has an average maximum temperature of 32°C and is the warmest month of the year.
  • Which is the coldest month in Raleigh?
    The coldest month is January with an average maximum temperature of 11°C.
  • Which is the wettest month in Raleigh?
    September tops the wettest month list with 136 mm of rainfall.
  • Which is the driest month in Raleigh?
    February is the driest month with 70 mm of precipitation.
  • Which is the sunniest month in Raleigh?
    June is the sunniest month with an average of 267 hours of sunshine.

  • No idea where to travel to this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.