North Carolina – Cool morning air brushes the Cape Fear region as Wilmington wakes under quiet skies, but the calm has a springlike twist. Jackets feel optional by afternoon, and the January sun carries surprising warmth for the first full workweek of 2026.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures rise steadily today into the upper 60s under partly sunny skies. Winds remain light early, then turn southwest by afternoon, adding to the mild feel. Roads stay dry, making for an easy start to school and work routines.
Warmer air strengthens Wednesday, pushing highs into the low 70s. That warmth continues into Thursday, keeping coastal communities well above seasonal norms. To be fair, it may feel more like March than midwinter, but the pattern remains active. Drivers should stay alert for early-morning fog near waterways and low-lying roads.
By Friday, clouds increase as moisture returns. Rain chances rise late Friday night and continue into Saturday. While no winter precipitation is expected locally, the warm-to-cool transition can still create slick spots early in the day, especially if rain lingers into cooler morning hours. Plan extra time if traveling along College Road, Market Street, or US-17 during wet periods.
Meteorologists continue tracking a busy weather pattern nationwide, with wintry impacts farther north and unseasonable warmth dominating the Southeast. Even here, rapid shifts remain possible as systems pass through.
One upside to January: daylight is increasing fast. By month’s end, Wilmington gains roughly 40 extra minutes of evening light, a noticeable boost for afternoon commutes and outdoor plans.
Keep umbrellas ready for the weekend, enjoy the mild stretch, and stay weather-aware as conditions change. Feeling the warmth already? Let us know how it feels where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Wilmington, NC
• Today: Partly sunny, high near 68°F.
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 71°F.
• Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 70°F.
• Friday: Mostly cloudy, high near 75°F.
• Saturday: Chance of rain, high near 73°F.
