Wilmington, N.C. – An intense wave of heat will grip Wilmington and surrounding coastal areas through Saturday night, as heat index values soar to a dangerous 108°F and an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, high temperatures in Wilmington and nearby communities like Belville and Leland will peak near 98°F both today and Sunday, with heat indices climbing well above safe outdoor thresholds. A light breeze from the southwest may offer little relief, and overnight lows will struggle to fall below 80°F, making for oppressive humidity and uncomfortable nights.
Residents in New Hanover and Brunswick counties should limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and check on neighbors—especially the elderly and those without air conditioning. The risk of heat-related illness is high, particularly for anyone spending extended time outdoors or working on local highways like US-17 and I-140. Showers and isolated thunderstorms are possible late each afternoon, but rain chances remain low until Sunday night, when a better shot of cooling storms returns to the region.
Emergency managers urge everyone to use air-conditioned spaces, avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day, and charge devices in case of weather-related outages. Relief may arrive by Monday with increased rain chances, but the heat remains dangerous until the warning expires.
Stay tuned for updates, as the Extreme Heat Warning could be extended if dangerous conditions persist.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
- Saturday: Sunny, high 98°F. Heat index up to 108°F. 20% chance of a late shower or storm.
- Sunday: Mostly clear early, then hot and sunny. High near 98°F, low 80°F. 20% chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 94°F. 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m.
- Tuesday: High 94°F. 40% chance of afternoon showers and storms.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 94°F. 30% chance of rain and thunderstorms, especially early.
Prepare for dangerous heat through Saturday night—cooler, wetter weather possible next week.
