Wilmington, North Carolina – Triple-digit heat index values and the threat of coastal flooding will converge across southeast North Carolina on Saturday, July 26, prompting multiple active weather alerts in the Wilmington area.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, an Excessive Heat Watch goes into effect Saturday morning through Saturday evening, with forecast heat index values reaching up to 108°F by afternoon. A separate Coastal Flood Advisory is also active from 3 a.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday, with minor tidal flooding possible along the Lower Cape Fear River, including U.S. 421 and downtown Wilmington.
Extreme heat can be deadly. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, especially between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., stay hydrated, and check on neighbors without air conditioning. Vulnerable groups, including children and older adults, are at heightened risk.
The heat follows a week of rising temperatures and could continue into Sunday with forecast highs nearing 99°F. Thunderstorm chances return late Sunday and continue into Monday, offering slight relief but also introducing storm-related hazards like lightning and gusty winds.
🌡️ Wilmington 5-Day Weather Outlook (Starting Saturday, July 26):
- Saturday: Sunny, high 98°F. Heat index up to 108°F.
- Sunday: High 99°F, slight chance of afternoon storms.
- Monday: Hot again, high near 97°F, 30% chance of afternoon T-storms.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 96°F.
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, high near 96°F. 40% chance of T-storms.
⚠️ Warnings remain in effect through at least Sunday evening. Expect additional advisories if temperatures continue trending above normal into next week.
