North Carolina – Rain bands are sweeping across Wilmington this morning, and wet pavement is already slowing traffic near College Road and U.S. 17. A steady soak continues through the afternoon, with thunderstorms possible after 4 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, rain is certain today with a 100% chance of precipitation. Highs reach near 64 degrees. East winds shift southeast at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 17 mph. Between a quarter and three-quarters of an inch of rain may fall, creating ponding on roads and brief downpours that reduce visibility.
Drivers along I-40 and Carolina Beach Road should allow extra time. Heavier bursts could lead to standing water in low spots by late afternoon. A rumble of thunder cannot be ruled out.
Rain tapers before daybreak Monday, then skies gradually clear. Washington’s Birthday turns breezy and cooler, with highs near 60 and north winds gusting up to 21 mph. Monday night drops to 37 under mostly clear skies.
By Tuesday, February 17, sunshine returns with highs near 64. The warm trend accelerates midweek. Highs climb to 70 Wednesday and 73 Thursday under mostly cloudy skies. That February thaw brings early spring vibes to coastal North Carolina.
Looking into President’s Day Week, above-normal temperatures expand nationwide. Much of the central U.S. runs 10 to 20 degrees above average, and mild air holds across the Southeast through late week with more rain chances by Friday.
Five Day Outlook for Wilmington, North Carolina:
Monday: Mostly sunny, high 60.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 64.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 70.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 73.
Friday: Chance of rain, high 75.
