North Carolina – Cold air cuts across the Cape Fear region this morning, frosting windshields and stiffening fingers within minutes. Side streets feel slick, and bridges glisten as winter tightens its grip along the coast.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through mid-morning, alongside a Winter Weather Advisory through late morning. Temperatures hovered near 20 degrees before sunrise, with wind chills in the low teens. Any leftover moisture from prior precipitation has frozen solid.
Travel impacts are most likely early today. Elevated roadways, including the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and stretches of U.S. 17 and I-140, may remain icy through the morning commute. Drivers should slow down and allow extra stopping distance, especially in shaded areas.
Sunshine helps conditions improve later today, though the air stays cold. Highs climb only into the upper 30s, limiting how much ice melts. As temperatures drop again tonight, refreezing becomes a concern on untreated surfaces.
Tuesday brings a noticeable shift. Clouds increase through the day, and highs rise into the upper 40s. A chance of rain develops Tuesday night, helping wash away remaining ice. That improvement is brief.
By Wednesday, rain becomes likely as a frontal system moves through. Highs reach near 50, but colder air follows behind the rain Wednesday night. While freezing rain is not expected in Wilmington, rapid temperature drops could still create slick spots late.
Thursday turns brighter and cooler, with sunshine returning and highs near 42. Looking toward the weekend, temperatures trend milder, and meteorologists see signs of above-normal warmth developing late next week.
For now, winter hazards remain the priority. Bundle up, protect pets and plants, and drive cautiously this morning. Are roads still icy where you are? Share what you’re seeing across Wilmington.
Five-Day Outlook for Wilmington, NC
- Today: Sunny, cold, high near 38
- Tuesday: Increasing clouds, high near 47
- Wednesday: Rain likely, high near 50
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 42
- Friday: Sunny, high near 52
