North Carolina is bracing for its first significant taste of fall as a cold snap arrives on Friday. Residents can expect a noticeable shift from the recent mild weather, with daytime highs dropping from the low 80s to the low 70s. Morning lows will dip into the 50s, signaling a clear transition to cooler autumn temperatures. The National Weather Service advises that breezy conditions are likely, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph, so securing outdoor items is recommended.