WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Carolina coast wakes under thick, humid air this morning, but change is on the horizon. Warm, breezy sunshine will give way to an active weather pattern that brings a chance of thunderstorms later today, followed by one of the coldest air masses of the season early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, scattered storms may develop late this afternoon and evening, especially inland from I-95 through Columbus, Bladen, and Robeson counties. Any stronger cells could produce gusty winds and small hail as a weak front slides across the region. Though severe weather isn’t widespread, brief downpours and isolated damage can’t be ruled out.
By Sunday, sunshine returns, but don’t be fooled—the Arctic front arriving Monday will deliver a sharp November cold snap. Temperatures Monday night are expected to plunge into the lower 30s, with some inland spots possibly seeing their first freeze of the season. Gusty northwest winds may push wind chills into the 20s across open fields and coastal bridges.
Residents should secure outdoor decorations, cover plants, and prepare for chilly mornings through Veterans Day. Drivers traveling late Sunday or Monday morning should watch for sudden temperature drops and patchy fog in sheltered areas.
To be fair, this isn’t a lasting winter grip—but it’s a wake-up call for coastal Carolina. After a string of mild fall days, the transition from thunderstorms to frost will mark the first true taste of late autumn.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
Sat: 78/62 – Sunny early; late storms possible inland.
Sun: 79/47 – Mostly sunny; breezy with falling temps.
Mon: 56/31 – Sunny; colder with gusty northwest wind.
Tue (Veterans Day): 50/36 – Clear and cool; early frost risk.
Wed: 63/42 – Sunny; gradual warming midweek.
