Wilmington, North Carolina – After a very cold start to the day, improving conditions are expected Monday afternoon across southeastern North Carolina, but renewed travel hazards may develop again overnight as temperatures fall back below freezing.
According to the National Weather Service Wilmington office, bright sunshine and above-freezing afternoon temperatures will help melt lingering ice and snow from roadways during the day. High temperatures are expected to range from 37 to 41 degrees, allowing for some improvement in travel conditions across the region.
However, forecasters warn that cold weather will return Monday night, with low temperatures dropping into the upper teens to mid-20s. As temperatures fall, any remaining wet spots on roads, bridges, and sidewalks are expected to refreeze, potentially leading to patchy black ice.
A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 11 a.m., as lingering ice and snow continue to create hazardous travel conditions early in the day. Even after the advisory expires, refreezing overnight could renew hazards, particularly along U.S. Highway 17 through Wilmington, Interstate 40, U.S. Highway 74, and NC Highway 133 near coastal communities.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that refreeze conditions are often difficult to see, especially after dark, and can be most dangerous on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways. Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and remain alert for slick spots during the evening and early Tuesday morning hours.
Conditions are expected to stabilize later Tuesday as temperatures gradually recover during the day, but cold mornings will remain a concern.
This weather pattern may be especially impactful for evening commuters, early-morning workers, and school transportation routes across the coastal plain.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and use caution when traveling Monday night and early Tuesday.
