Wilmington, North Carolina –Storm chances will increase across southeastern North Carolina starting Friday, July 4, potentially disrupting holiday travel and outdoor plans into next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a series of daily thunderstorm chances begins Independence Day afternoon, peaking during the late evening and continuing through Tuesday, July 9. Localized downpours and lightning are the main threats, especially for travelers along U.S. Route 17, where visibility may quickly drop during heavy rain.
Belville, Wilmington, and surrounding communities can expect isolated storms by midday Friday, with a high near 90°F. Winds could gust up to 18 mph by late morning. Thunderstorm activity will likely increase again Saturday through Monday, with 50–60% chances of rain each afternoon and evening. While rainfall totals should remain under an inch daily, stronger cells may produce localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
Extended Forecast Snapshot: July 4–9
- Friday (July 4): High near 90°F, storms possible after 11 a.m., winds gusting to 18 mph
- Saturday: High near 87°F, 50% chance of afternoon/evening storms
- Sunday: High near 87°F, 60% storm chance, showers likely overnight
- Monday: High around 90°F, 50% chance of storms by afternoon
- Tuesday: High near 92°F, 50% thunderstorm chance
