North Carolina – Cold air pooled near the Cape Fear River this morning, frosting windshields and keeping hands tucked into pockets before sunrise. Skies stayed clear and calm, offering a quiet start to a holiday week that turns noticeably warmer by Christmas.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, temperatures rebound steadily after the chilly start. Highs reach the upper 60s today and climb near 70 by Christmas Day, while winds remain light and conditions stay dry across coastal southeastern North Carolina.
In Wilmington, Leland, Carolina Beach, and along U.S. 17 and I-40, travel conditions remain smooth. Roads stay dry, visibility stays high, and no rain or fog issues are expected to slow drivers through the week. Early mornings feel brisk, but afternoons turn comfortable.
Wednesday brings full sunshine with highs near the upper 60s. To be fair, nights remain cool, dropping into the mid to upper 40s. That contrast can feel sharp early, though temperatures rise quickly once the sun clears the horizon.
Christmas Day shapes up as one of the warmest days of the stretch. Mostly sunny skies push highs near 70 degrees, a welcome break for travelers heading out or returning home. Outdoor plans benefit from light winds and dry air.
By Friday, clouds increase slightly, and highs ease back into the mid-60s. Even so, no cold snap, freeze, or winter precipitation threatens post-Christmas travel. Meteorologists note the region stays well south of the winter weather impacting much of the Midwest and Northeast.
Plan ahead for early departures with layers for cool mornings. Expect easy driving, mild afternoons, and steady conditions through the end of the week. Traveling Friday after Christmas? Let us know how the roads look where you are.
Five Day Outlook for Wilmington, North Carolina
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 68°F
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 69°F
- Christmas Day: Sunny, high near 70°F
- Thursday: Partly cloudy, low near 51°F
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, high near 64°F
