WILMINGTON, N.C. – Drivers along U.S. 17 and I-40 could face slippery conditions by Thursday as storm chances return to coastal North Carolina. Patchy morning fog will continue to slow commuters across New Hanover and Brunswick counties this week, adding to visibility concerns. Officials urge drivers to use low beams and allow extra time during the morning rush.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms begins Thursday afternoon, with gusty winds possible. Storm chances increase Thursday night into Friday, when stronger cells could bring heavy downpours across Wilmington, Belville, and Leland. Rain may be heavy enough in spots to cause ponding on low-lying roads and brief travel delays.
Friday looks especially unsettled, with scattered thunderstorms through the day and into the evening. Morning commuters across U.S. 74 and Carolina Beach Road should expect slick pavement and slower traffic flow. Showers are likely to continue Saturday, keeping the region damp and muggy into the weekend.
Despite the wet stretch, daytime highs remain warm in the mid-80s, holding off any early-season cold snap. Overnight lows hover in the upper 60s to low 70s, offering little relief from the humidity. Residents should keep umbrellas close and monitor alerts for possible stronger storms through Friday night.
Conditions trend drier by Sunday, though scattered showers could linger before clearing skies early next week. More advisories may be issued if storms intensify.
Five Day Forecast for Wilmington, N.C.:
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 88. Patchy morning fog.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 88. Fog possible early.
- Thursday: Sunny early, then storms possible after 2 p.m. High 88.
- Friday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high near 86.
- Saturday: Showers likely, high near 84. Clearing late.
