Rain to Snow: What to Expect Tonight Across the Piedmont

Rain will be the main weather story across the Piedmont for much of today, but conditions will change later this afternoon and tonight as colder air pushes in from the north. While snowfall amounts are expected to be light, the timing of falling temperatures could still lead to travel issues overnight and early Thursday.

Here’s what to know.

Rain First, Then a Change Late Today

Periods of light rain will continue through the afternoon as temperatures remain above freezing. As colder air filters southward this evening, rain may mix with or change over to snow, especially across the northern and central Piedmont.

This transition is expected to occur late this afternoon into the evening, with precipitation becoming lighter as the changeover happens.

Snow Amounts Look Minor — But That’s Not the Whole Story

Forecast models continue to show very light snowfall totals, generally a dusting to under half an inch for most Piedmont locations. Some areas may see little to no accumulation at all.

However, snow amounts alone do not tell the full impact story.

Why Roads Could Still Become Slick

The bigger concern tonight is how quickly temperatures fall after precipitation.

As skies remain cloudy and precipitation tapers off, temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s overnight. Any lingering moisture on roads — including rain, melting snow, or drizzle — could freeze rapidly, leading to:

• Slick spots on bridges and overpasses

• Icy patches on untreated secondary roads

• Refreezing in parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways

This setup raises the risk for a flash freeze, where wet surfaces turn icy in a short period of time.

Who Is Most Likely to See Impacts

Not everyone will experience the same conditions. Impacts will vary based on elevation, road treatment, and how quickly temperatures fall.

Areas most likely to see slick conditions include:

• Bridges and elevated roadways

• Rural and less-traveled roads

• Shaded areas that cool faster after sunset

What Happens After Tonight

Conditions improve during the day Thursday as precipitation ends and skies gradually clear. While it will remain cold, dry weather returns, helping road conditions improve by late morning and afternoon.

Looking ahead, the forecast stays quiet through the weekend with near-seasonal temperatures and no significant precipitation expected.

Bottom Line

Snow totals tonight are expected to be light, but freezing temperatures arriving shortly after precipitation ends could still cause travel problems. Use caution if driving overnight or early Thursday morning, and remain aware that conditions may change quickly even if snowfall appears minimal.