WILMINGTON, N.C. – High tides will drive water onto streets in Wilmington this week, bringing repeated flooding threats along the Cape Fear River.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, minor coastal flooding is likely today and tonight, with the highest impacts during evening high tides. Flooding could affect downtown Wilmington streets and portions of U.S. 17 near the river. Officials warn drivers to avoid flood-prone areas and to not attempt driving through standing water.
The risk continues through at least Sunday as multiple high tide cycles push water onto low-lying areas. While the flooding is classified as “minor,” it can still disrupt travel, damage vehicles, and cut off access to key downtown routes. Residents are urged to monitor conditions, especially during evening commutes, and prepare alternate routes when possible.
Wilmington’s week begins with mild weather, with partly sunny skies and a high near 80 on Monday. Tuesday brings a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms, followed by another round of showers Tuesday night into early Wednesday. Winds will remain breezy, gusting up to 22 mph at times, which could worsen coastal water levels.
Conditions improve toward the end of the week, with mostly sunny skies and highs climbing into the mid-80s by Thursday and Friday. However, the evening tide cycles will remain the key concern through the upcoming weekend.
More advisories may follow if flooding becomes more widespread, and residents should stay alert for updated warnings from local officials.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, slight chance of afternoon storms, high 80.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, slight chance of storms, high 80.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 84.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 84.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 82.
