Weather
Wilmington, NC Flood Alert: Roads at Risk Through Midnight Oct 25
Wilmington, NC – Rising tidal waters along the lower Cape Fear River could push flooding into vulnerable sections of downtown Wilmington on Sunday, Oct. 25, with water reaching as much as one foot abo
By Miles Carter · 2026-10-25T09:05:26.532Z
Wilmington, NC – Rising tidal waters along the lower Cape Fear River could push flooding into vulnerable sections of downtown Wilmington on Sunday, Oct. 25, with water reaching as much as one foot above ground level in low lying areas. A Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect until midnight EDT, placing particular attention on waterfront roads and properties near tidal waterways. Although sunshine and temperatures in the 70s are expected, the pleasant afternoon weather will not eliminate the flooding concern.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the advisory covers the lower Cape Fear River, including downtown Wilmington, where elevated tidal conditions could produce minor coastal flooding. Portions of Battleship Road and USS North Carolina Road may experience water depths approaching one foot, while sections of Water Street could see flooding up to approximately six inches. Officials caution that additional locations may become vulnerable if heavy rainfall, stronger winds or other factors develop.
Elevated Tides Threaten Downtown Waterfront Roads The greatest concern involves roads and waterfront locations where tidal water can spread beyond the riverbanks during higher water levels. The National Weather Service specifically identifies Battleship Road, USS North Carolina Road and Water Street as locations susceptible to minor flooding. These areas serve waterfront businesses, visitors and residents, making even relatively shallow flooding a potential transportation concern.
At the Cape Fear River gauge in Wilmington, the Sunday morning high tide was projected near 6.1 feet relative to mean lower low water at approximately 9 a.m. Another elevated tide near 5.7 feet is expected around 9 p.m. Sunday. Both periods carry a minor flood classification in the official tidal forecast, reinforcing the possibility of recurring water intrusion before the advisory expires.
Drivers traveling near the downtown waterfront should allow additional time and avoid entering flooded roadways. Water depth can be difficult to judge, particularly near drainage areas and low lying intersections. The weather service advises motorists not to drive around barricades or through standing water of unknown depth. No specific road closures were confirmed in the supplied advisory, and travelers should consult local officials for updates.
Minor Flooding Potential Extends Into Tuesday Although the current advisory expires at midnight, elevated tidal levels remain part of the forecast early next week. Monday morning's high tide is projected near 6.3 feet around 10 a.m., followed by approximately 5.6 feet Monday evening. Tuesday morning's high tide is forecast near 6.2 feet around 11 a.m., with all three periods classified as having minor flood impacts.
These projections do not establish that the existing advisory will be extended. However, they indicate that vulnerable waterfront locations could continue experiencing elevated water levels beyond Sunday's advisory period. Residents and businesses near the river should monitor subsequent National Weather Service statements and local emergency management information.
Sunshine Returns as Coastal Winds Gradually Ease Away from the tidal flooding concern, the Wilmington area forecast remains predominantly sunny. Sunday's afternoon high will reach approximately 74 degrees, with northeast winds of 10 to 17 mph and gusts reaching 28 mph. Winds will ease Sunday night, although gusts could still approach 21 mph as temperatures fall toward 51 degrees.
Monday and Tuesday should bring additional sunshine, with highs near 74 and 75 degrees, respectively. Wednesday is expected to reach 76 degrees under mostly sunny skies, continuing the mild pattern across the Cape Fear region.
The distinction between favorable weather and hazardous tidal conditions is important. Flooding along the waterfront can occur even without widespread rainfall, particularly when tides and coastal water levels remain elevated.
Have you noticed water reaching streets or parking areas along Wilmington's downtown waterfront during recent high tides?
Five Day Weather Outlook Sunday 10/25: Sunny skies will bring a high near 74 degrees, with northeast winds of 10 to 17 mph and gusts up to 28 mph; temperatures fall near 51 degrees tonight, while the Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect until midnight.
Monday 10/26: Sunshine continues with an afternoon high near 74 degrees, north winds of 8 to 10 mph and gusts up to 16 mph; clear skies follow Monday night, with temperatures dropping to approximately 45 degrees.
Tuesday 10/27: Sunny conditions will dominate the Wilmington area, with temperatures reaching approximately 75 degrees and north winds near 7 mph; mostly clear skies are expected Tuesday night as temperatures fall to around 53 degrees.
Wednesday 10/28: Mostly sunny skies will bring another mild afternoon, with temperatures climbing to approximately 76 degrees; partly cloudy conditions develop Wednesday night, with temperatures settling near 57 degrees across the forecast area.
Thursday 10/29: Partly sunny skies will accompany an afternoon high near 76 degrees, continuing the relatively mild late October pattern; mostly clear conditions are expected Thursday night, with temperatures dropping to approximately 56 degrees.
Extended Weather Outlook Friday, Oct. 30: Sunny skies are expected, with a high near 78 degrees. Friday night will be mostly clear, with a low near 57 degrees.
Saturday, Oct. 31: Mostly sunny conditions are forecast for Halloween, with an afternoon high near 78 degrees. Specific Saturday evening temperatures were not included in the supplied forecast.