Wilmington, North Carolina – Strong to severe thunderstorms may slam coastal North Carolina on Saturday afternoon, with hail and wind gusts topping 20 mph likely to impact areas from Wilmington to inland Brunswick County.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a developing storm system could bring large hail and damaging wind gusts on Saturday, May 17, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours. The highest risks lie across Robeson, Bladen, Columbus, Brunswick, and Pender counties—stretching along key roadways including U.S. Route 17 and U.S. 74.
Temperatures will climb into the low 90s Friday, giving way to unstable conditions that may trigger afternoon convection. While Friday remains mostly sunny and dry, residents in southeast North Carolina should prepare for possible weather-related delays, power flickers, and travel disruptions on Saturday. Outdoor plans may be impacted.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Belville and Wilmington Areas:
- Friday (May 16): Mostly sunny, high near 93°F. Winds southwest at 5–7 mph.
- Saturday (May 17): Partly sunny, high near 91°F. Wind gusts could reach 23 mph. Thunderstorm risk late afternoon into evening.
- Sunday (May 18): Mostly sunny, high around 89°F. Winds taper slightly.
- Monday (May 19): Clear skies return. High near 88°F.
- Tuesday (May 20): Mostly sunny, high near 86°F. No precipitation expected.
