WILMINGTON, N.C. – September heat isn’t letting go just yet. Drivers and residents across coastal North Carolina can expect sunny skies and rising temperatures Thursday before the return of storms later in the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, Thursday will stay mostly clear with highs near 86 degrees and light afternoon winds. By Saturday, the mercury will push to 91, making it one of the hottest early September weekends for the region. The stretch of dry, sunny weather means perfect conditions for beachgoers, but it also increases risks of heat-related stress for anyone outdoors.
Roads including U.S. Highway 17 and Interstate 40 are expected to stay dry through Saturday, though motorists should remain cautious of high glare during evening commutes. Hydrate often, avoid leaving pets or children in cars, and limit strenuous outdoor work during peak heat hours.
By Sunday afternoon, conditions shift. Forecasters warn of a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, especially after 2 p.m., with unsettled weather continuing into Monday and Tuesday. Travel delays and outdoor cancellations are possible, particularly for football games and other fall events scheduled late in the weekend.
Clear skies dominate the short term, but the developing storm pattern could complicate Labor Day travel across southeastern North Carolina. Keep alerts active and watch for updated advisories as the weekend progresses.
Five Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC
- Thursday: Sunny, high 86, low 68.
- Friday: Sunny, high 89, low 71.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 91, low 72.
- Sunday: Showers and storms after 2 p.m., high 88, low 69.
- Monday: Partly sunny, storms possible, high 83, low 70.
