Wilmington, NC – A tropical storm is expected to develop into a major hurricane this week, posing a serious threat to Wilmington and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service warns that residents along the I-40 corridor and coastal communities should prepare for heavy rainfall, storm surges, and possible flooding starting as early as Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the storm, currently labeled as Potential Tropical Cyclone #9, is forecasted to intensify into a hurricane as it approaches the Florida Panhandle before sweeping across Southeast North Carolina. The city could see rain as soon as Thursday afternoon, with conditions worsening into the weekend. The storm could bring gusts of wind exceeding 80 mph and flash flooding risks, especially in low-lying areas near I-140.
Residents are urged to secure loose objects outdoors, have an emergency kit ready, and stay updated on weather advisories. Evacuations may be necessary for some coastal zones, so following local alerts is essential. Stay tuned for more updates as the storm’s path becomes clearer.