North Carolina’s Cape Fear region is waking up to a cool, damp breeze as clouds thicken over Wilmington and the Lower Cape Fear. At 44 degrees this morning, the air feels crisp but not harsh, with southwest winds already gusting near 25 to 28 mph along Market Street and over the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, mostly cloudy skies hold today with highs near 61 degrees. Winds from the southwest between 10 and 20 mph will keep a steady coastal chop and may push lighter vehicles along exposed bridges. A slight chance of rain develops late tonight, especially after the pre-dawn hours.
Rain chances increase Thursday, with scattered showers possible and highs climbing to 65 degrees. Conditions turn wetter Thursday night as showers become more widespread. By Friday, rain is likely with an 80 percent chance of measurable rainfall and highs near 61. Periods of steady rain could create ponding on roadways, especially along College Road, Oleander Drive, and stretches of U.S. 17.
Plan for slower travel during heavier bursts. Keep headlights on in rain and allow extra braking distance.
Showers linger into Friday night before tapering Saturday morning. Partial sunshine returns Saturday afternoon with highs near 65. Sunday looks brighter and milder, reaching 69 degrees under sunny skies.
Early next week trends mostly dry and seasonably mild, with highs in the mid-60s. Longer-range signals suggest above-normal temperatures building into early March, reinforcing gradual spring warmth across coastal North Carolina.
Five Day Outlook for Wilmington, North Carolina:
Today: Mostly cloudy, high 61°.
Thursday: Chance of showers, high 65°.
Friday: Showers likely, high 61°.
Saturday: Chance of showers early, high 65°.
Sunday: Sunny, high 69°.
