North Carolina – Low fog clings to riverbanks and neighborhoods near the Cape Fear early this morning, muting streetlights and slowing traffic. Temperatures sit just below freezing inland, creating a cold, damp start before a dramatic warm-up unfolds.
According to the National Weather Service, patchy fog develops through the early commute, especially near waterways and low-lying roads. Visibility improves quickly after sunrise as sunshine takes control. Afternoon highs surge into the upper 60s around Wilmington, an abrupt February shift that dries pavement and softens the air by lunchtime.
Clouds thicken tonight as winds turn southwest. Temperatures stay unusually mild, falling only into the low 50s. That warmth fuels the next system arriving Wednesday morning. Rain becomes likely by midmorning, with steady showers reducing visibility and creating slick travel on I-40, U.S. 17, and local connectors. Rainfall totals stay light, but timing could affect school and work travel.
By Wednesday afternoon, showers taper and skies gradually clear. Cooler air slips in behind the front Wednesday night, dropping lows into the mid-30s. Any lingering moisture could refreeze late, especially on bridges and shaded roads.
Thursday brings bright sunshine and calmer conditions. Highs settle into the mid-50s, closer to seasonal norms. Friday and Saturday remain dry with a slow warming trend. Valentine’s weekend highs reach the upper 50s, making outdoor plans more comfortable during the day.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors above-normal temperatures across much of the Southeast. That signals a broader late-February thaw, even as nights still remind residents winter isn’t finished.
Slow down in fog this morning, plan extra time during Wednesday’s rain, and stay alert for late-night refreezing. Noticing the rapid temperature swings this week? Share what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook – Wilmington, North Carolina
• Today: Morning fog, then sunny, high near 68
• Wednesday: Rain likely, then clearing late, high near 66
• Thursday: Sunny, cooler, high near 55
• Friday: Partly sunny, high near 55
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy, milder, high near 57
