WILMINGTON, NC – A still, foggy dawn cloaks the Cape Fear region this morning, but change is close behind. Thickening clouds and Gulf moisture are set to drench southeastern North Carolina Friday, marking the start of a soggy, unsettled stretch into the weekend.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington expects rain to begin early Friday morning and continue steadily through the day, with up to a half inch of rainfall possible across Belville, Wilmington, and Leland. Patchy fog may reduce visibility below a mile at times, especially along U.S. 17 and I-40, creating hazardous conditions for the morning and evening commute.
Friday’s high near 50°F will feel cool and damp as northeast winds increase to 10 mph. Rain remains likely into Friday night and Saturday, tapering only briefly before scattered showers return Sunday. Drivers should plan extra time and watch for ponding and slick intersections, particularly near coastal and low-lying areas.
The system finally exits by Monday, leaving behind partly sunny skies and highs near 50°F, followed by a brighter, cooler Tuesday with morning lows dipping to the low 30s inland.
Meteorologists are watching the next potential pattern shift by mid-December (Dec. 11–17) — colder air could push south, bringing the first winter-like chill to parts of the Carolinas before Christmas.
Five-Day Outlook (Wilmington, NC)
- Friday: Rain, high 50°F.
- Saturday: Rain likely, high 50°F.
- Sunday: Chance showers, high 55°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 48°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly clear, high 56°F.
