North Carolina – Soft morning light pushes across the Cape Fear River as thin clouds drift over Wilmington’s historic district, casting a cool tint on the quiet streets. Damp pavement glows under the early sky, and a gentle west breeze hints at the gradual warm-up that closes in by early week. With Thanksgiving travel accelerating, residents should track subtle shifts today and the clearer window expected Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, clouds increase this morning as west winds rise to near 20 mph. These gusts may scatter loose leaves across Market Street and create brief crosswind concerns on the Isabel Holmes Bridge. Travelers should secure outdoor decorations and expect heavier leaf litter along curbs.
According to meteorologists, tonight turns mostly cloudy before clearing late. Southwest winds strengthen, occasionally reaching 23 mph. These winds will help boost Sunday’s temperatures. Commuters headed toward U.S. 17 or Carolina Beach Road should watch for patchy blowing sand along exposed stretches.
According to forecasters, Sunday brings full sun and warmer air with highs in the upper 70s. This vibrant stretch supports outdoor work, early holiday decorating, and yard cleanup before bigger travel days arrive. Monday trends cooler with highs near 63°F under clear skies, offering a reliable window for long drives.
Models hint at a Tuesday warm surge. Highs push into the upper 60s with bright skies and calm winds. It’s an ideal travel day across southeastern North Carolina as Thanksgiving week begins. No Winter Tease appears in this pattern, but stronger systems may develop later next week.
Wednesday holds mostly sunny skies with mid-70s warmth, rounding out a very stable pre-holiday stretch.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
Sat: 72/58 – Increasing clouds; breezy; scattered leaf litter on roads.
Sun: 77/44 – Sunny; gusty southwest winds; warm and dry.
Mon: 63/42 – Sunny; cooler; stable travel window.
Tue: 67/52 – Sunny; warmer; great travel day.
Wed: 74/55 – Mostly sunny; mild; pre-Thanksgiving calm.
