Wilmington, NC — A significant shift in weather is on the horizon for North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina as an Arctic cold front sweeps through the region. Temperatures will drop dramatically Monday evening, marking the start of a wintry week.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wilmington, daytime highs in the 60s on Sunday will give way to lows near 30°F by Monday night. Motorists should exercise caution Monday morning as patchy dense fog may reduce visibility to less than half a mile in some areas, particularly along major routes like Interstate 40 and Highway 74.
The Arctic air mass is expected to bring the coldest temperatures of the season through midweek, with Tuesday night lows plunging into the mid-20s. The NWS forecasts an 80% chance of snow beginning late Tuesday, transitioning to freezing rain overnight into Wednesday. Hazardous road conditions, including icy patches, are likely, especially during the Wednesday morning commute.
Residents in southeastern North Carolina, including Wilmington, Elizabethtown, and Florence, SC, should prepare for potential disruptions. Make sure to check local forecasts and stock up on winter essentials like de-icing supplies and emergency kits.
The extended forecast shows highs in the 30s through Thursday, with another chance of freezing rain late in the week. Sunny conditions are expected to return by Friday, but temperatures will remain below average.
Stay updated on winter weather developments by visiting weather.gov. Travelers are urged to allow extra time and use caution on local roadways as conditions deteriorate starting Tuesday evening.
