Wilmington, NC – Southeastern North Carolina faces a minor coastal flood risk as the first week of fall begins. By Monday evening, September 22, higher tides combined with onshore winds may cause nuisance flooding along the Cape Fear River, potentially impacting River Road (U.S. 421) and other low-lying streets in Wilmington.
Flood Threat and Timing
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the threat begins late Sunday and increases into early next week. While flooding is expected to remain below major thresholds, residents are advised to:
- Move vehicles from flood-prone areas
- Avoid driving through standing water on low-lying streets
- Exercise caution during evening high tides
The combination of astronomical high tides and onshore winds may produce localized flooding from downtown Wilmington south to Carolina Beach.
Weekend Weather Outlook
Much of the region will remain calm and dry through the weekend.
- Saturday: Patchy morning fog, then sunshine; highs near 85°F
- Sunday: Mostly sunny and dry; gusts up to 17 mph
Residents can enjoy pleasant conditions while remaining mindful of the minor flood threat beginning late Sunday evening.
Early Week Forecast
Wilmington and surrounding areas will see mostly sunny skies through Wednesday, with highs in the mid-80s and overnight lows in the upper 60s. Humidity will remain moderate, making outdoor activities comfortable.
By Thursday, scattered showers and isolated storms are expected, with rain chances increasing into Friday, but widespread flooding is not anticipated.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 84°F, low 65°F, breezy at times
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 84°F, low 67°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 86°F, low 69°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 87°F, low 70°F
- Thursday: Chance of showers, high 84°F, low 70°F
Safety and Travel Recommendations
Residents should monitor the Cape Fear River during evening high tides, particularly from late Sunday into midweek. Localized water on streets may impact commutes and evening travel, even though widespread flooding is not expected…