WILMINGTON, N.C. – The morning starts calm and cool along the Cape Fear River, but a change is brewing on the horizon. Clouds will thicken through the day as a moist Atlantic flow returns, setting up for a damp, breezy stretch tonight into Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, light rain may begin late Sunday, becoming steadier and heavier after midnight. A few rumbles of thunder are possible between 2 and 4 a.m., mainly near the coast and along U.S. 17. Rain could slow the Monday morning commute across New Hanover and Brunswick counties, with ponding possible on low-lying roads. Winds will shift from northeast to northwest by Monday afternoon, signaling drier air on the way.
By Tuesday, skies clear and temperatures rebound into the upper 60s to near 70 — perfect for post-storm cleanup, yard work, or early holiday decorating. Midweek sunshine continues, with highs climbing to the low 70s Wednesday and Thursday. Nights will stay comfortably cool in the mid-40s to low 50s.
Forecasters credit the region’s mild setup to the broader La Niña pattern now holding through early winter. While this typically keeps southeastern states warm and dry, coastal systems like this week’s can bring quick rain bursts before high pressure rebuilds. Looking toward next weekend, models hint at another weak system forming offshore, but confidence remains low for any major impacts.
For now, residents can expect a brief soaking followed by several days of bright, calm weather — a welcome return to fall normalcy along the Carolina coast.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
Sun: 68/56 – Increasing clouds; 30% chance of rain late.
Mon: 66/48 – Rain likely early; breezy, clearing late.
Tue: 67/46 – Sunny; mild and dry.
Wed: 71/50 – Sunny; pleasant midweek warmth.
Thu: 70/50 – Mostly sunny; light breeze, seasonable.
