North Carolina commuters are driving through steady rain across Wilmington this morning, with water pooling along Market Street and stretches of US-17. Temperatures hover near 58 degrees now, and a widespread soaking will continue through much of the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, rain remains likely mainly before early afternoon, with a 90 percent chance of precipitation. Highs reach near 68 degrees as southwest winds shift northwest later today, gusting up to 18 mph. Rainfall totals between a tenth and a quarter inch could create brief ponding on low-lying roads.
Skies begin clearing tonight. Temperatures fall sharply to around 35 degrees under decreasing clouds. While no freeze is expected in the city, inland spots could dip colder. Watch for slick areas where standing water lingers, especially on bridges over the Cape Fear River.
Thursday turns sunny with a high near 55. Thursday night drops to 32 degrees under partly cloudy skies. Friday remains mostly sunny with a high near 54.
Valentine’s Weekend starts mild. Saturday climbs to 61 degrees with sunshine. Clouds increase Saturday night, and rain chances rise to 40 percent. Sunday brings a wetter pattern, with rain likely and highs near 61. Plan for damp travel late weekend.
Early next week trends warmer. Washington’s Birthday approaches the lower 60s with additional rain chances. Long-range signals show above-average warmth expanding nationwide into late February.
Five Day Outlook for Wilmington, North Carolina:
Today: Rain, high 68°F.
Tonight: Decreasing clouds, low 35°F.
Thursday: Sunny, high 55°F.
Friday: Mostly sunny, high 54°F.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 61°F.
