North Carolina – Soft morning light breaks through thin clouds along the Cape Fear coast as mild air settles in. The chill of recent mornings eases quickly, and by midday, jackets feel optional. It is a calm start to the first full weekend of winter, and travel conditions are favorable.
According to the National Weather Service, skies turn partly sunny today with highs reaching the upper 50s in Wilmington. Winds stay light, and roads remain dry along U.S. 17, College Road, and I-40. Conditions support smooth travel for residents heading out early for holiday plans.
The warm-up accelerates Saturday. Sunshine dominates, and temperatures surge into the low 70s, unusually warm for late December. Beaches, parks, and highways see increased activity as visitors and locals take advantage of the break. Saturday night stays quiet with mild lows in the mid-40s.
Sunday remains mostly sunny with highs near the mid-60s. Clouds increase late, signaling a shift. By Monday, warmer air peaks again, pushing highs into the low 70s. A chance of showers develops during the afternoon, briefly dampening roads but limiting widespread disruption.
Behind that system, cooler air arrives quickly. Monday night turns cooler, and Tuesday feels more like winter, with highs dropping into the upper 40s. Dry conditions return, improving travel as many prepare for New Year’s celebrations.
Looking ahead to New Year’s Eve on Wednesday, conditions appear dry and seasonably cool. Daytime temperatures rebound into the low 50s with clear skies at night, offering comfortable conditions for coastal celebrations.
Drivers should remain alert for changing conditions Monday afternoon but can expect a largely smooth travel window through the weekend. After all, December warmth can fade quickly along the coast.
Five-Day Outlook for Wilmington, NC
Today: Partly sunny. High near 59°.
Saturday: Sunny and warm. High near 72°.
Sunday: Mostly sunny. High near 65°.
Monday: Partly sunny, chance of showers. High near 73°.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny and cooler. High near 48°.
