Weather
Wilmington, NC Weather Alert: 42° Drop by Saturday, Nov 12-16
Wilmington, NC — North Carolina's coastal warmth is about to take a sharp November turn. Sunshine and temperatures near 76 degrees around Wilmington will give way to chilly nights, with lows approachi
By Erin Vale · 2026-11-12T09:39:28.702Z
Wilmington, NC — North Carolina's coastal warmth is about to take a sharp November turn. Sunshine and temperatures near 76 degrees around Wilmington will give way to chilly nights, with lows approaching freezing by Saturday.
The 42 degree difference between Thursday's afternoon high and Saturday night's projected low signals a significant change for the Cape Fear region.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, sunny skies will dominate Thursday, with southwest winds of 7 16 mph and gusts reaching 24 mph.
Residents across Wilmington, Leland, Belville and surrounding New Hanover and Brunswick counties can expect a mild afternoon before cooler air begins settling into southeastern North Carolina.
Thursday night temperatures fall near 48 degrees, offering the first indication of the approaching cooldown.
Friday Brings Cooler Air Before a Near Freezing Weekend Friday remains sunny, but afternoon temperatures reach only 63 degrees, approximately 13 degrees cooler than Thursday.
West winds of 7 10 mph could gust to 16 mph.
By Friday night, temperatures drop near 39 degrees as mostly clear skies allow additional cooling.
The biggest concern arrives Saturday night.
Saturday's high reaches only 57 degrees, nearly 20 degrees below Thursday's projected high.
Northwest winds of 7 10 mph could gust to 17 mph before temperatures tumble toward 34 degrees Saturday night.
That places some Wilmington area neighborhoods just two degrees above freezing.
Saturday and Sunday: Frost Potential Enters the Conversation The National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center is tracking a broad surge of polar air across the eastern United States.
The colder pattern could bring widespread frost and freezing temperatures across portions of the Southeast this weekend.
For the Wilmington area, Saturday night's projected 34 degree low raises the possibility of localized frost, particularly in sheltered inland locations.
However, the supplied local forecast does not indicate a widespread freeze or an active frost advisory.
Residents with sensitive plants should monitor updated temperatures and consider protective coverings where needed.
Sunday brings another sunny afternoon with highs near 58 degrees.
Sunday night temperatures fall to approximately 36 degrees, maintaining the chilly pattern.
Monday Brings Sunshine, but Cool Nights Continue Monday remains sunny with highs near 58 degrees.
Temperatures fall toward 38 degrees Monday night before a gradual warming trend develops.
Tuesday could reach 60 degrees, followed by 63 degrees Wednesday.
The extended dry stretch offers homeowners an opportunity to clear fallen leaves, secure outdoor decorations and prepare gardens for colder conditions.