WILMINGTON, N.C. – Rising tides and incoming storms could cause dangerous conditions across coastal North Carolina Sunday night into Monday morning. Drivers near Wilmington should avoid low-lying areas, especially along U.S. Highway 17, where flooding and ponding may create hazardous travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. Sunday. Northeasterly winds are expected to strengthen overnight, reaching gusts up to 20 mph. Showers and thunderstorms are likely by late Monday morning, with rainfall amounts between a quarter and half an inch. Higher totals are possible in stronger storms.
Localized flooding remains a concern in New Hanover and Brunswick counties, especially during high tide cycles. Emergency officials urge residents to stay alert, avoid driving through standing water, and secure outdoor belongings before the storms arrive.
Monday’s high will reach near 78 degrees, but humidity and unsettled conditions will dominate the start of the workweek. Thunderstorms could linger through Monday night into early Tuesday, with gusty winds up to 18 mph. Intermittent showers may slow commutes along key routes like I-40 and U.S. 17.
Conditions improve by midweek. Skies clear Tuesday night, and Wednesday turns mostly sunny with highs in the low 80s. By Thursday and Friday, North Carolina welcomes true fall weather, with sunshine, comfortable humidity, and highs in the mid-80s.
More advisories could be issued if rainfall totals increase. Residents should monitor updates and remain prepared for quickly changing conditions.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms, high near 78. Northeast wind 8–11 mph. 50% chance of rain.
- Tuesday: Scattered showers, partly sunny, high near 77. Chance of rain 30%.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 82. Overnight low 64.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 85. Calm winds.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 84. Low around 67.
