North Carolina – Gray skies stretch over the Cape Fear River this morning as steady rain builds across Wilmington and the surrounding coastal plain. Pavement glistens under headlights, and the air carries a cool, ocean-salted dampness — unmistakably December along the Carolina coast.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington reports periods of heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms through the early afternoon, with rainfall totals between 1 and 2 inches possible. Winds from the east will increase to 10–20 mph, occasionally stronger near the shoreline. Drivers should expect ponding on local streets and stretches of U.S. 17 and I-140, especially where drains clog with falling leaves.
By late afternoon, showers will taper off, followed by clearing skies and temperatures falling into the mid-30s tonight. Wednesday and Thursday bring a brief return to calm, mostly sunny days in the 50s — perfect for drying out before the next system arrives Friday into Saturday, when another round of rain and wind could impact early weekend travel.
Meteorologists describe this as a classic early-December transition — mild coastal warmth giving way to crisp nights and the first hints of winter chill.
If you’re headed out today, keep headlights on, watch for flooded intersections, and allow extra space between vehicles.
Are you seeing flooded roads near Wilmington or Leland? Tell us where conditions are worst today.
