Wilmington, North Carolina – Residents along the southeastern coast woke up to a crisp winter bite as temperatures dipped to 29°F, marking the first widespread December freeze for the region. Frost-coated windshields, quiet early-morning roads, and clear skies created a classic coastal cold snap before a gradual warm-up begins later today.
The chill, though sharp, will not last long. Forecasters expect a steady rise in temperatures through the afternoon and into the weekend, giving Wilmington one of its calmest and driest mid-December stretches so far this season.
Morning Freeze Signals December’s First True Cold Shot
Cold air held firm overnight, allowing temperatures to drop well below freezing across parts of coastal North Carolina. Light winds and clear skies helped radiate warmth away from the surface, leading to frost on vehicles, bridges, and shaded roadways.
“Early commuters should allow extra time to clear frost from windshields and be mindful of slippery spots on elevated surfaces,” local meteorologists advised in reports.
The freeze follows a recent pattern of fluctuating temperatures across the Carolinas, where brief cold snaps have been quickly replaced by warmer spells.
Warming Trend Starts This Afternoon
Despite the frigid morning, sunshine dominates the forecast through the end of the week. Totals rebound into the mid-50s this afternoon as dry southwest winds push milder air toward the coast.
Wind gusts may briefly reach 20 mph, but conditions remain comfortable and stable. The warm-up marks the start of a multi-day stretch with calm weather and no significant storm systems expected.
Sunshine Continues Into the Weekend
Forecasters say Wilmington is entering a rare quiet period for December. Highs on Thursday and Friday hover near 56°F, offering cool but bright afternoons.
By Saturday, conditions improve further. Temperatures climb to the low 60s, giving residents an ideal window for outdoor activities, holiday decorating, or coastal walks.
Rain chances remain extremely low through early next week, with forecasters noting this as one of the driest stretches so far this month.
Nights Stay Cold With Repeated Frost Potential
Even with daytime warmth returning, overnight readings keep winter close by. Temperatures will drop into the 30s each night, and inland areas could see another round of light frost, especially near the Cape Fear River basin.
Residents planning early morning travel should continue to expect frosty windshields and chilly starts through the next several days.
Five-Day Outlook for Wilmington
Thursday: Sunny, high near 50°F, low 31°F
Friday: Sunny, high 56°F, low 39°F
Saturday: Sunny, high 61°F, low 44°F
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 58°F, low 24°F
Monday: Sunny, high 53°F, low 27°F
What Residents Should Know
Wilmington’s weather pattern remains stable, dry, and mild heading into the weekend. With no rain in the immediate forecast, the focus stays on frosty mornings followed by pleasant afternoons.
If you live in the area, share how cold it was in your neighborhood this morning in the comments below.
