Wilmington, NC – Thunderstorms could rumble through Wilmington by mid-afternoon Sunday, bringing slick roads, sweltering heat, and dangerous lightning across southeast North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a mix of strong sun and rising humidity will push heat index values near 100°F by midday Sunday, followed by a 40% chance of thunderstorms developing after 2 p.m. Showers may begin earlier, but storm activity becomes more likely later in the day, especially along I-40 and coastal areas. New rainfall amounts will be light, but isolated downpours could be intense.
Locals should stay weather-aware and avoid unnecessary travel Sunday afternoon, particularly along U.S. 74, U.S. 17, and NC 421 where sudden downpours may reduce visibility. If thunder roars, go indoors — lightning risks increase with scattered storms. Sunday night clears out somewhat, but the unsettled pattern holds into next week.
By Monday, Wilmington will see another round of storms with a 60% chance of showers and possible thunderstorms between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Storms remain possible Monday night through at least Wednesday, as daily highs stay in the upper 80s to low 90s with tropical moisture lingering across the region.
🌤 Five-Day Outlook: Wilmington, NC
- Sunday (High 91°F): Heat index near 100. Chance of showers and storms after 2 p.m.
- Monday (High 90°F): Showers and storms likely, especially after 11 a.m.
- Tuesday (High 88°F): Thunderstorms likely again after 2 p.m.
- Wednesday (High 88°F): Repeated storm activity expected by midday.
- Thursday (High 89°F): Continued chance of storms into afternoon hours.