Wilmington, NC – Storms are on the move in coastal North Carolina, with rain and thunderstorms expected to begin Sunday and persist through Monday. Travelers and residents along US-17 near Wilmington should prepare for changing conditions, especially during the Sunday evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, isolated thunderstorms could begin as early as Sunday afternoon, with a 50% chance of rain increasing into Sunday night and Monday. Rainfall totals are expected to remain light, but localized downpours and gusty winds could develop with embedded thunderstorms.
The greatest weather impacts will occur Monday, when storm coverage may intensify across New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties. Forecasters say precipitation chances remain at 50% through the day, with another round of storms likely Monday night—especially between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. Tuesday.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, check local forecasts regularly, and use caution on roads that could become slick during passing storms. No hazardous weather is expected Saturday night, but clouds will increase Sunday ahead of the storm system.
Looking ahead at the five-day forecast:
- Tuesday: Partly sunny with a chance of showers, high near 74°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high around 73°F.
- Thursday: Continued sunshine, high near 83°F.
- Friday: Warmer conditions with highs in the mid-80s under mostly sunny skies.
Storm potential fades by Tuesday, giving way to a warmer, drier week across coastal North Carolina.



