Memorial Day Weekend Forecast: Timing the Rain for Outdoor Plans

By Rowan County Weather | May 23, 2025

Whether you're planning a cookout, attending a Memorial Day ceremony, or gearing up for the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, timing is everything this weekend. As we head into Memorial Day, Rowan County will experience a shift from dry and pleasant conditions to wetter and cooler weather. Here's a detailed look at the forecast:

Friday: The Calm Before the Clouds

We kick off the holiday weekend with sunny skies and a high near 73°F. It's the best day for any last-minute errands or outdoor chores. Winds will be out of the west-northwest at 5–11 mph with a few gusts near 18 mph.

Tonight: Clear and cool, with a low around 50°F.

Saturday: Still Mostly Dry

Saturday continues the nice stretch with mostly sunny skies and a high near 72°F. Winds will stay light and variable, making it a pleasant day for early gatherings, yardwork, or an afternoon at the park.

Saturday Night: A few clouds drift in, but rain is not expected yet. Low near 58°F.

Sunday: Shower Chances Build Late

Sunday morning starts partly sunny, and the best window for outdoor events is before 2 PM. Rain chances increase to 40% in the afternoon, mainly after 11 AM.

If you have a cookout or early afternoon plans, you may be able to squeeze them in before scattered showers begin to move in from the southwest.

Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway: Rain Timing

The Coca-Cola 600 is scheduled to start at 6:00 PM on Sunday, May 25, at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, NC. Here's what to expect weather-wise:

• Before the Race (1:00 PM – 6:00 PM):

  • Temperature: High of 77°F at 5:00 PM

  • Precipitation: 34% chance from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM

  • Wind: 3 to 5 mph

• During the Race (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM):

  • Temperature: Around 75°F at 6:00 PM

  • Precipitation: 46% chance from 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM

  • Wind: 3 to 2 mph

• After the Race (10:00 PM – Midnight):

  • Temperature: Approximately 70°F at 10:00 PM

  • Precipitation: 46% chance from 10:00 PM to midnight

  • Wind: Around 2 mph

Note: While the early part of the race may remain dry, the increasing chance of rain as the evening progresses could impact the latter stages of the event. Fans should be prepared for possible delays or interruptions due to weather conditions.

Memorial Day Monday: Expect Showers

Unfortunately, the chance of rain rises to 50% during the day and 70% by night. Expect cloudy skies with off-and-on showers throughout the day. Temperatures will be cooler, with highs near 70°F.

Plan Ahead: If you're attending a ceremony, bring an umbrella or rain jacket. Some events may be moved under shelter or adjusted for weather.

Tuesday: Wettest Day of the Week

A steady round of rain is likely Tuesday with a high near 63°F. Rain chances are 80%, and the day will stay cloudy and damp before things finally begin to dry out midweek.

Quick Take: Best Times for Outdoor Plans

Weather-Ready Tips

• Have a backup plan for cookouts or gatherings

• Watch for updated radar and timing on our social channels

• Don't forget — wet roads and cooler temperatures can impact travel