Wilmington, NC – Residents across southeastern North Carolina woke up to a chilly morning Saturday, with widespread lows in the upper 30s and around 40°F — and some rural areas dipping far lower.
According to the US National Weather Service Wilmington, Back Island in Pender County registered a low of 29°F, while sensors in the Holly Shelter area reported readings plunging into the lower 20s. It marked one of the coldest mornings of the fall season so far.
Several nearby locations, including Whiteville, Conway Airport, and Marlboro Airport, recorded temperatures in the upper 30s. Farther south into South Carolina, early morning readings ranged from 32°F in Cool Spring to around 40°F near Loris and Darlington.
The cooler weather follows a stretch of mild autumn conditions. Meteorologists say the temperature dip was driven by clear skies and calm winds overnight — ideal for radiational cooling.
While no widespread frost advisories were issued, forecasters advise residents to monitor early morning lows over the next few days as another cold start is possible before temperatures moderate into next week.
