<P> In winter, North Carolina is somewhat protected by the Appalachian Mountains to the west . Cold fronts from Canada are typically reduced in intensity by the mountains . However, occasionally cold air can move from the north or northeast, east of the Appalachian Mountains, from Arctic high pressure systems that settle over the Northeastern or New England states . Other polar and Arctic outbreaks can cross the mountains and force temperatures to drop to about 12 ° F (− 11 ° C) in central North Carolina . Still, temperatures below zero degrees Fahrenheit are extremely rare outside of the mountains . The coldest ever recorded temperature in North Carolina was − 34 ° F (− 37 ° C) on January 21, 1985, at Mount Mitchell . The winter temperatures on the coast are milder due to the warming influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream . The average ocean temperature in Southport in January is still higher than the average ocean temperature in Maine during July . Snow is common in the mountains, although many ski resorts use snowmaking equipment to make sure there is always snow on their land . North Carolina's relative humidity is highest in the winter . </P> <P> Tornadoes are most likely in the spring . Major tornado outbreaks affected parts of eastern North Carolina on March 28, 1984, and April 16, 2011 . The month of May experiences the greatest rise in temperatures . During the spring, there are warm days and cool nights in the Piedmont . Temperatures are somewhat cooler in the mountains and warmer, particularly at night, near the coast . North Carolina's humidity is lowest in the spring . </P> <P> North Carolina experiences high summer temperatures . Sometimes, cool, dry air from the north will invade North Carolina for brief periods of time, with temperatures quickly rebounding . It remains colder at high elevations, with the average summer temperature in Mount Mitchell lying at 68 ° F (20 ° C). Morning temperatures are on average 20 ° F (12 ° C) lower than afternoon temperatures, except along the Atlantic Coast . The largest economic loss from severe weather in North Carolina is due to severe thunderstorms in the summer, although they usually only hit small areas . Tropical cyclones can impact the state during the summer as well . Fogs are also frequent in the summer . </P> <P> Fall is the most rapidly changing season temperature wise, especially in October and November . Tropical cyclones remain a threat until late in the season . The Appalachian Mountains are frequently visited at this time of year, due to the leaves changing color in the trees . </P>

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