WILMINGTON, N.C. – Drivers in downtown Wilmington may encounter minor flooding this afternoon as a Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect until 5 p.m. Friday, with more high-tide flooding possible through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, up to one foot of water above ground level is expected in low-lying areas along the lower Cape Fear River. Portions of Battleship Road, USS North Carolina Road, and sections of Water Street may see nuisance flooding, with depths reaching one half foot in some spots.
Officials urge drivers to allow extra time for travel and avoid barricaded roads or unknown water depths. Even shallow flooding can damage vehicles or conceal hazards. Residents in flood-prone zones should take precautions to protect property, especially during afternoon high tides Saturday and Sunday.
High tides are expected to peak near 6.9 feet Friday afternoon and again at similar levels Sunday, which may continue the risk of minor flooding downtown. While widespread damage is not anticipated, spotty road closures are possible if water levels rise further.
The advisory is set to expire at 5 p.m. Friday, but forecasters caution additional alerts could be issued if tides remain elevated through early next week.
Five Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 83, breezy with gusts up to 17 mph.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 81, calm evening with low near 62.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 82, low around 64 at night.
- Monday: Partly sunny, chance of showers after 2 p.m., high near 82.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, chance of showers, high near 81.
