Cooler air in the Appalachians, warmth for the Southeast
North Carolina is expected to experience a divided autumn in 2025, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, whose seasonal outlook was released in early July. The publication, known for its long-range forecasts, is predicting a warmer-than-usual fall for much of the United States, especially in the western half of the country. However, conditions in North Carolina will vary significantly depending on the region.
In the Southeast, which includes much of central and eastern North Carolina, September and October are expected to be warmer and drier than average. The average temperature for September will hover around 78°F (25.5°C), with approximately 4 inches of rainfall. Conditions will likely be warm and stormy at the beginning of the month, shifting to a cooler finish.
October in the Southeast is forecast to remain sunny and warm in the early weeks, with light showers in the middle of the month. The average temperature is projected to be 64°F (17.7°C), with only 1.5 inches of rain. The month should end with cooler, drier air.
In contrast, the Appalachian region, which includes Western North Carolina and cities like Asheville, is looking at a cooler and drier start to the fall season. In September, the average temperature will dip to 65°F (18.3°C), with about 3 inches of rainfall. Expect sunny and warm days early in the month, followed by mid-month thunderstorms, and finally a cooling trend with some regional variation.
Moving into October, the Appalachians are predicted to remain cool, with an average temperature near 53°F (11.6°C). Rainfall will increase slightly to 2.5 inches, and the weather will likely feature scattered showers from early to mid-month, becoming drier and warmer towards the end.
The fall equinox officially arrives at 2:19 p.m. ET on Monday, September 22, signaling the beginning of the autumn season in the Northern Hemisphere.
This forecast positions North Carolina at a meteorological crossroads this fall. While the mountain regions brace for brisker, calmer weather, the Southeast coastline and piedmont should anticipate lingering heat and limited rainfall well into October.
