Wilmington, NC – A rare winter storm is expected to bring accumulating snow and dangerously cold temperatures to Wilmington and coastal southeast North Carolina this weekend, prompting weather officials to warn of hazardous travel and prolonged impacts into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, confidence continues to increase that a powerful Nor’easter will affect New Hanover County and surrounding areas from Saturday through Sunday. Forecasters say the combination of heavy moisture and unusually cold air could produce one of the most impactful winter weather events the Wilmington area has seen in decades.
Meteorologists describe the system as a “Miller-A” storm, a classic East Coast Nor’easter capable of producing widespread snow when cold air is firmly in place. While such storms are common farther north, it is uncommon for conditions to align in a way that produces significant snow along the Cape Fear coast.
An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect for Wilmington, with the most dangerous conditions expected Saturday night and Sunday night. Wind chills could drop to near 0 degrees or below, levels rarely experienced in coastal North Carolina. For context, Wilmington International Airport has not recorded a wind chill colder than -1 degrees since January 1994.
Snowfall totals remain uncertain, but forecasters say Wilmington is likely to see measurable accumulation. Low-end projections suggest at least 2 to 4 inches of snow, while the official forecast calls for 4 to 6 inches across much of southeast North Carolina, including the Wilmington area. Localized higher totals are possible if heavier snow bands develop.
Officials warn that bitterly cold temperatures will make it difficult for snow and ice to melt, increasing the risk of slick roads well into Monday morning. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads are expected to be especially hazardous.
Residents are urged to complete preparations now, avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, and monitor updates as the forecast continues to evolve.
