WILMINGTON, NC – Dawn breaks calm over the Cape Fear River, its surface glassy under the golden edge of early sun. The air is mild now, but tides are creeping higher and colder air is quietly lining up to replace this stretch of coastal warmth before Veterans Day Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a King Tide cycle will bring minor coastal flooding Friday morning, especially across low-lying areas of New Hanover, Brunswick, and coastal Horry Counties. Brief tidal flooding may cover parts of River Road, Water Street, and other shoreline corridors during peak high tide. Drivers should avoid saltwater-covered streets and check tide times before parking near inlets or marshes.
By the weekend, skies stay mostly sunny and temperatures warm into the upper 70s—perfect for early holiday decorating or fall cleanup. But behind that calm pattern, a sharp cold front will slide in from the northwest Sunday night, ushering in the season’s first true cold snap. Lows could dip near freezing just inland from the beaches by Monday night, with frost possible as far south as the Cape Fear region by Tuesday morning.
Veterans Day events will likely take place under clear but brisk conditions, with highs only in the low 50s and a steady northwest breeze. To be fair, this may feel like a shock after this week’s coastal warmth—but it marks the region’s first taste of early winter. Residents are urged to protect plants, drain garden hoses, and check heating systems ahead of Tuesday’s chill.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
Thu: 69/51 – Sunny; light northwest breeze.
Fri: 74/60 – Mostly sunny; minor coastal flooding with AM high tide.
Sat: 78/62 – Partly cloudy; warm, breezy afternoon.
Sun: 78/45 – Mostly sunny; slight PM shower chance.
Tue (Veterans Day): 52/32 – Clear, brisk; morning frost possible inland.
