North Carolina – Cool air settles in early, and the feel of winter sharpens as the week moves forward. Sunshine helps today, but the warmth does not last. By late Thursday night, cold air presses into coastal North Carolina, setting up the coldest stretch so far this January.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a Cold Weather Advisory is possible late Thursday night into Friday morning for southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina. While no hazardous weather is expected today, temperatures trend steadily downward as high pressure builds in.
In Wilmington, highs reach the upper 40s Thursday under mostly sunny skies. Winds stay brisk, adding a bite to the air. After sunset, skies clear and temperatures fall quickly. Lows drop into the low 20s inland, with lower 30s closer to the coast. Frost becomes likely, especially away from the beaches.
Residents should prepare for cold-sensitive impacts. Protect tender plants, bring pets indoors, and check outdoor plumbing. Early morning drivers may encounter slick patches on bridges where condensation freezes near daybreak.
Friday brings bright sunshine but limited warmth. Afternoon highs recover into the upper 40s, though shaded areas stay chilly. Friday night remains cold, with lows in the mid-30s and patchy frost possible again.
The weekend improves. Saturday turns sunny and milder, with highs climbing into the low 60s. Sunday cools slightly but stays dry, offering better conditions for travel and outdoor plans.
Looking ahead to Jan. 19–23, NOAA outlooks suggest near-normal precipitation across the Carolinas, with temperatures slowly moderating after this cold snap. Winter still holds ground, but extremes appear brief.
Heading out early Friday? Expect a cold start. How low did temperatures dip near your home?
Five Day Weather Outlook for Wilmington, North Carolina
• Today: Partly sunny. High near 59.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny and cooler. High near 47.
• Friday: Sunny after a cold morning. High near 48.
• Saturday: Sunny and milder. High near 61.
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, cooler. High near 41.
