WILMINGTON, N.C. – Storms are brewing along the Carolina coast, bringing a dangerous mix of flooding and lightning risks through Sunday night. Drivers along U.S. 17 and U.S. 421 should prepare for water pooling on roadways and sudden travel slowdowns.
According to the National Weather Service, a Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect for Wilmington until early Saturday afternoon, with additional thunderstorm chances building into Sunday. New rainfall totals could exceed a half inch in localized storms, especially where heavier downpours stall. Forecasters warn that high tides could combine with rainfall to worsen flooding near low-lying neighborhoods and cause delays for coastal commuters.
Sunday’s storms are expected to hit hardest between late morning and mid-afternoon. Lightning and gusty winds may briefly knock out power across New Hanover and Brunswick counties. Emergency officials urge residents to avoid driving through flooded intersections and to move vehicles from flood-prone streets.
By Monday, conditions should improve as skies turn partly sunny, though pop-up storms remain possible in the afternoon. Tuesday and Wednesday will bring drier weather, giving the coast a brief break before rain chances return late in the week.
Residents are advised to charge devices, check on elderly neighbors, and avoid nonessential travel during the heaviest rainfall periods. The National Weather Service says additional alerts may be issued if flooding worsens.
Five Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC
- Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high near 85. Storms strongest midday.
- Monday: Mostly sunny with isolated storms, high near 89.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 85.
- Wednesday: Clear skies, high near 82.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 82.
