Wilmington, North Carolina offers a distinctive climate that’s both captivating and varied.
Summers in Wilmington are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 89°F.
If you’re visiting during the warm months, be prepared for a mix of sun and frequent rain showers that bring an average of 58 inches of rainfall each year.
On the other hand, winters are short and can get quite chilly, dipping down to around 37°F.
It’s an excellent time to explore without the summer crowds.
Spring and Fall are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and ample sunshine providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
For those interested in a more detailed monthly breakdown, Wilmington experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
You can find more about the average monthly weather, including precipitation and sunshine hours, to help you plan your visit.
Average Temperature in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina, experiences a variety of temperatures throughout the year.
During the summer, temperatures often climb into the high 80s and low 90s Fahrenheit. About half of the summer days feature highs in the 90s.
Spring and Fall:
During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate.
Spring temperatures typically range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. In the fall, expect temperatures to vary from the low 60s to the high 70s.
Winter:
Wilmington’s winters are mild compared to many other regions.
Average winter temperatures usually stay between 40°F and 60°F. It rarely gets extremely cold, and snowfall is infrequent.
A quick overview of the average monthly temperatures includes:
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 57 | 35 |
| February | 60 | 38 |
| March | 66 | 44 |
| April | 74 | 51 |
| May | 81 | 61 |
| June | 87 | 68 |
| July | 90 | 72 |
| August | 89 | 71 |
| September | 84 | 66 |
| October | 75 | 54 |
| November | 67 | 44 |
| December | 59 | 38 |
In August, Wilmington experiences its warmest water temperatures, averaging around 82°F, making it a great time for beach activities.
For more details on temperature, visit ChaseDay.com.
People living or visiting Wilmington can enjoy a wide range of temperatures, offering different experiences throughout the year.
Average Precipitation in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina experiences a mix of rainfall and occasional snow. Understanding the average precipitation can help residents and visitors plan their activities, especially during the wetter months.
Average Rainfall in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is known for its significant rainfall throughout the year.
The wet season lasts from early June to mid-September.
During this period, there’s a greater than 36% chance of rain on any given day. July is the peak with an average of 15.3 wet days. This translates to frequent and sometimes heavy showers.
The average yearly rainfall in Wilmington is around 58 inches.
April, May, and October are among the most pleasant months, combining moderate rainfall with comfortable temperatures.
The increased precipitation during summer can lead to occasional flooding, making it crucial for residents to stay updated on weather alerts.
Average Snow in Wilmington, North Carolina
Snow is quite rare in Wilmington compared to other parts of the country.
The months that have the potential for snow are January and February, but even then, the average snowfall is minimal.
For example, January sees an average of 0.7 inches, while February gets about 0.2 inches.
There have been instances of higher snowfall in the area. The highest recorded snowfall in a month is about 12.5 inches. Overall, the annual total averages to about 0.9 inches.
Snow events may cause disruptions, though they are infrequent and typically short-lived.
Average Sun in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. The city experiences around 216 sunny days annually, which is higher than the U.S. average. This provides residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and the scenic surroundings.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington receives a significant amount of shortwave solar energy.
This type of solar radiation is crucial for understanding the amount of sunlight and warmth the city gets.
During the summer months, particularly in July, the average daily shortwave solar energy is at its peak, fostering hot and sunny days.
In contrast, the winter months see a decrease in daily solar energy. This reduction contributes to cooler temperatures and shorter days.
Despite this, the city still receives a reasonable amount of sunlight during the winter.
For more details, you can explore the average weather year-round in Wilmington, NC.
Average Humidity in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. The average annual relative humidity is 57.3%.
Monthly average humidity ranges from 50% in April to 62% in July.
| Month | Average Relative Humidity |
|---|---|
| January | 58% |
| February | 55% |
| March | 54% |
| April | 50% |
| May | 52% |
| June | 60% |
| July | 62% |
| August | 61% |
| September | 59% |
| October | 55% |
| November | 56% |
| December | 57% |
Summertime in Wilmington is often hot and humid. This can make outdoor activities feel more intense due to the higher moisture levels in the air.
Winter months tend to have lower humidity, making the air feel drier. This might be more comfortable for those who prefer less humidity.
For more detailed information on humidity by month, you can check out relative humidity in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Average Wind in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina experiences varying wind patterns throughout the year.
The wind blows mostly from the north for about 6.1 months, from September 17 to March 19. This direction peaks at around 40% on January 1.
The average wind speed differs by season.
During the cold months, the wind tends to be stronger, while the summer months usually have gentler breezes. Spring often experiences moderate winds, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 10-15 |
| April | 15 |
| July | 8-10 |
In winter, winds from the north chill the air, sometimes making it feel colder than the actual temperature. This can affect outdoor plans and activities, especially from November to February.
While the wind is mostly from the north in winter, the other half of the year sees it coming from other directions.
This varied wind flow contributes to the changing weather patterns experienced by the city. Wilmington’s coastal location also impacts wind speed and direction, making it a unique environment for both residents and visitors.
The transition periods of spring and fall bring winds that can shift quickly, often leading to mixed weather conditions.
Tracking these wind patterns helps in understanding the wind forecasts and planning outdoor activities accordingly.
Average Air Quality in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina, is known for having generally good air quality throughout the year. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) typically falls in the “Good” range.
Pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10 are measured regularly.
The Wilmington Air Quality Index usually shows low levels of these particles, meaning the air is clean and safe to breathe.
Ozone (O3) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) are also monitored.
The levels of these pollutants are often low, contributing to the overall air quality.
Here’s an overview of the major pollutants:
| Pollutant | Level | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| PM2.5 | Low | Minimal impact |
| PM10 | Low | Minimal impact |
| Ozone (O3) | Low | Minimal respiratory effects |
| Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) | Low | Minimal respiratory effects |
Topography of Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, located in New Hanover County, North Carolina, features varied topography.
The city’s elevation ranges from -7 feet below sea level to 23 feet above sea level. This makes it a relatively low-lying area, typical for coastal regions.
Wrightsville Beach is part of Wilmington’s coastal landscape. It lies just east of the main city and contributes to the area’s diverse terrain.
Elevation Range:
- Average Elevation: 23 feet
- Minimum Elevation: -7 feet
- Maximum Elevation: 23 feet
The terrain includes sandy beaches, coastal plains, and some slight elevation changes within the city and nearby areas.
The elevation being relatively low affects the overall landscape, making coastal flooding a key concern during high tides and storms.
The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean influences the topography and contributes to the unique coastal features of Wilmington.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina, experiences various extreme weather events throughout the year. These events are often tracked and recorded by the National Weather Service.
Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
Tropical storms and hurricanes are frequent in Wilmington. Most of Wilmington’s strongest storms have been tropical systems, with 12 of the top 20 storms in history being tropical in nature.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes, although less common than hurricanes, do occur. They can cause significant damage to property and pose a threat to life.
Flooding
Heavy rains often lead to flash flooding, especially during tropical storms and hurricanes.
Wilmington is prone to significant rainfall, which can result in life-threatening flood conditions.
Wild Weather Events
In 2022, Wilmington experienced a range of extreme weather, from unseasonably warm winters to late-season hurricanes and harsh cold snaps. These events highlight the city’s vulnerability to diverse and unpredictable weather patterns.
Historical Data
Official barometric pressure readings and other weather records in Wilmington date back to 1871. This long history of data collection helps in understanding and preparing for extreme weather events.
For more detailed information, you can check the Severe Weather Climatology for NWS Wilmington and some of the top storms in Wilmington’s history.
Temperature Range: Extreme temperatures can range widely, contributing to the diverse weather patterns experienced throughout the year.
Rainfall: Heavy rainfall, measured in inches, is common during extreme weather events, leading to potential flooding.
These factors combine to shape the unique climate profile of Wilmington, making it a challenging area for weather prediction and preparation.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Wilmington, North Carolina
The best times to visit Wilmington, North Carolina are during the spring and fall months when the weather is pleasant, and temperatures are mild. These seasons also see fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices.
What Is Wilmington, North Carolina Like in Spring
Spring in Wilmington runs from March to May.
During these months, the temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s in Fahrenheit. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s attractions.
Rainfall is moderate, averaging about 3-4 inches per month.
Visitors can enjoy blooming flowers and various festivals.
This is also a great time for picnics and beach outings, as the beaches are less crowded compared to the summer months.
What Is Wilmington, North Carolina Like in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is the hottest time of year in Wilmington.
High temperatures often reach the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, and humidity levels are high.
July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 90°F.
This is the peak tourist season. Beaches and hotels are crowded, and prices for accommodations are higher.
Despite the heat, summer offers plenty of events, water sports, and beach activities.
Evening temperatures drop to the 70s, making nights more comfortable.
What Is Wilmington, North Carolina Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit.
This season experiences less humidity and fewer crowds.
September can still be warm, but by October, the weather becomes pleasantly cool.
Rainfall averages between 3-4 inches monthly, making fall ideal for outdoor activities.
October is particularly beautiful with colorful foliage and comfortable weather. Festivals and events celebrating the fall harvest are common.
What Is Wilmington, North Carolina Like in Winter
Winter in Wilmington spans from December to February.
Temperatures during these months range from the low 40s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit.
Snowfall is rare, and rainfall averages about 3 inches per month.
This is the least crowded time, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet visit.
While the beaches are too cold for swimming, visitors can still enjoy walks along the shore or visit indoor attractions like museums and historic sites.