Yearly & Monthly weather - Wilmington, NC

The climate of Wilmington
The best time to visit Wilmington
The worst time to visit Wilmington
Spring weather in Wilmington
Summer weather in Wilmington
Autumn weather in Wilmington
Winter weather in Wilmington
Weather in January
Weather in February
Weather in March
Weather in April
Weather in May
Weather in June
Weather in July
Weather in August
Weather in September
Weather in October
Weather in November
Weather in December
Frequently asked questions
Average temperature
Average pressure
Average wind speed
Average humidity
Average rainfall
Average rainfall days
Average snowfall
Average snowfall days
Average sea temperature
Average daylight
Average sunshine
Average sunshine days
Average UV index
Average cloud cover
Average visibility

A creative creation on a large field in Wilmington, North Carolina

The climate of Wilmington

The predominant climate of Wilmington, North Carolina, USA, aligns with the Köppen climate classification of Cfa, denoting a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. Situated on the southeastern coast of the state, this geographical area experiences moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the year, no substantial snowfall, and substantial variation in temperatures.

Analyzing the monthly climate patterns reveals that Wilmington, throughout the year, has a wide range of temperatures from 40.1°F (4.5°C) to 87.6°F (30.9°C), with the warmest month being July and the coldest month is January. As for humidity, there are no significant monthly variations, with relative humidity fluctuating between 73% and 77%.

Rainfall measurements show an interesting pattern, as the amount of rain Wilmington receives increases steadily from 1.93" (49mm) in January to a peak of 5.59" (142mm) in August. The number of rainfall days follows a similar pattern, with the most rain falling between June and August.

Unique weather conditions include the absence of any substantial snowfall throughout the year. Remarkably, the sea temperature tends to be warm, with peaks at 82.8°F (28.2°C) in August and a minimum of 57.5°F (14.2°C) in February. This characteristic is a significant contributor to the humid subtropical climate of this coastal city.

The best time to visit Wilmington

The ideal time for tourist activities in Wilmington would be between April and June, and again from September to November. Besides providing comfortable temperatures between 62.4°F (16.9°C) and 82.2°F (27.9°C), these periods offer longer daylight hours, approximately between 12 hours in April to 14.4 hours in June, followed by a decrease to 12.4 hours in September.

In addition to the increased daylight, these are the times when the city experiences peak sunshine hours. Furthermore, the sea temperatures are also reasonably warm, ranging from 64.9°F (18.3°C) in April to 80.4°F (26.9°C) in September, ideal for water-based activities.

The worst time to visit Wilmington

The least favorable time to schedule a visit to Wilmington is between December and February. During this period, temperatures dip to their lowest between 40.1°F (4.5°C) and 57.7°F (14.3°C). Despite the mild conditions compared to other parts of the country during winters, these months still pose a less inviting time for outdoor activities or tourism. Moreover, sea temperatures also fall to their lowest, between 57.5°F (14.2°C) and 62.7°F (17.1°C), thereby limiting water-based activities.

Spring weather in Wilmington

Springtime in Wilmington, which spans from March until May, is characterized by gradually warming temperatures. Average high temperatures rise from 62.4°F (16.9°C) in March to a comfortable 78.6°F (25.9°C) in May. Simultaneously, rainfall increases from 2.8" (71mm) in March to 3.58" (91mm) in May. The month of May also signifies a transition period as the length of the days begins to extend, offering up to 14 hours of daylight towards the end of the month.

Summer weather in Wilmington

The summer months of June, July, and August in Wilmington can become quite hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 84.7°F (29.3°C) to 87.6°F (30.9°C). There is an upswing in rainfall from 3.82" (97mm) in June to a peak of 5.59" (142mm) in August. Despite the increased rainfall, the city enjoys between 14.4 and 13.4 hours of daylight and around 10.6 to 10.8 hours of sunshine during this season.

Autumn weather in Wilmington

Autumn is seen as a transition period in Wilmington with temperatures reducing from 82.2°F (27.9°C) in September to a mild 63.9°F (17.7°C) by November. There is also a decrease in rainfall from 5.39" (137mm) in September to 2.76" (70mm) by November. The length of the day begins to decrease from 12.4 hours in September to 10.4 hours by November.

Winter weather in Wilmington

Winter in Wilmington, stretching across December, January, and February, is quite mild with temperatures ranging from 40.1°F (4.5°C) to 57.7°F (14.3°C). Rainfall during this period averages between 1.93" (49mm) in December and 2.36" (60mm) in February. Despite being the coldest period of the year, the number of sunshine hours remains fair ranging from 5.5 to 5.9 hours, with 9.9 to 11 hours of daylight.

Weather in January

January's weather in Wilmington, North Carolina, USA experiences a notable drop in temperature coming from December. Cold air dominates with the lowest monthly average temperature reaching only 54°F (12.2°C). Precipitation also begins to increase making the city a bit more damp and chillier. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February weather in Wilmington, North Carolina, USA, ignites a shift from the January's sharp cold. There is a gradual increase in temperature making the early spring bloom evident around the city. Moist, damp conditions still persist as rainfall continues. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Wilmington's March weather extends the balmy ascent from February in this North Carolina city. However, rainfall increases to 2.8" (71mm) making the air feel slightly more humid. Though slightly damp, outdoor activities still flourish as sunshine hours elevate. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Wilmington's April weather fully immerses the city into spring. Temperatures hover comfortably around 70.7°F (21.5°C) making April one of the commendably warmer months. The mix of balmy weather and increased sunshine provides perfect conditions for wildlife watching at the Wilmington Seahawk Nature Trail. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May's weather in Wilmington, North Carolina, USA, leans towards the warmer side. Temperatures continue to rise, signifying the onset of the summer season. Rainfall also increases, adding a touch of humidity to the air. The sunny beaches become a hotspot for tourists and locals alike as the sea temperature warms up. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June's weather in Wilmington denotes the peak of summertime. The high temperature reaches 84.7°F (29.3°C) with a substantial number of sunshine days. This makes outdoor sightseeing enjoyable, with the Battleship North Carolina exhibition being a favored choice among visitors. Weather in June »

Weather in July

In Wilmington, July heralds the hottest month of the year. The temperature escalates to 87.6°F (30.9°C), while daylight reaches a maximum. Nonetheless, the humidity brought by increased rainfall creates a slightly blistering environment. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August weather in Wilmington shows a slight decline from the July heat. However, it records the heaviest rainfall of 5.59" (142mm) making the city exceptionally humid. Despite this, many enjoy beach-going as sea temperatures make a comfortable dip. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Wilmington's September weather records a further drop in temperature. This welcomes a comfortable climate while still maintaining a warm sea temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C). Rainfall decreases slightly and the autumn vibe begins to permeate. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Wilmington's October weather sets an inviting, moderate temperature. A notable drop in humidity sets in as rainfall significantly decreases. This movement away from the blistering summer heat bestows a refreshing environment. The golden autumn foliage becomes a charmer among nature and photography enthusiasts. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Wilmington, North Carolina, USA, initiates the city's retreat to colder months. The temperature continues to decline and the rainfall slightly edges up. However, warmer outfits become a necessity as the city gets a brisk chill. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Wilmington's December weather signifies the crescendo of the calendar year. The moderate cold of winter takes over with temperatures around 58.1°F (14.5°C). While the chill is bearable, rainfall increases providing an occasional damp feel to the air. Weather in December »

Updated: Feb 13, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest month in Wilmington?

January stands out as Wilmington's coldest month, with temperatures ranging between an average high of 54°F (12.2°C) and a low of 40.1°F (4.5°C).

What are the least humid months in Wilmington?

January and March, with an average relative humidity of 73%, are the least humid months.

What is the driest month in Wilmington?

January is the month with the least rainfall in Wilmington. Rain falls for 11.9 days and accumulates 1.93" (49mm) of precipitation.

How much does it rain in Wilmington?

Throughout the year, in Wilmington, North Carolina, there are 182.5 rainfall days, and 41.42" (1052mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow in Wilmington?

January through March are months with snowfall in Wilmington, North Carolina.

What is the snowiest month in Wilmington?

The month with the most snowfall in Wilmington is January, when snow falls for 0.8 days and typically aggregates up to 0.75" (19mm) of snow.

How much does it snow in Wilmington?

In Wilmington, North Carolina, during the entire year, snow falls for 1.3 days and aggregates up to 0.83" (21mm) of snow.

When is the lowest UV index in Wilmington?

The months with the lowest UV index are January, February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 3.

What is the month with the coldest ocean in Wilmington?

The month with the coldest seawater in Wilmington, North Carolina, is February, with an average ocean temperature of 57.6°F (14.2°C).

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Wilmington?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Wilmington, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

When it does not snow in Wilmington?

In Wilmington, North Carolina, snow does not fall in April through December.

When are the longest days in Wilmington?

With an average of 14h and 24min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.

What are the months with the most sunshine in Wilmington?

June and July, with an average of 10.8h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.

What is the month with the highest UV index in Wilmington?

June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Wilmington, North Carolina.

What are the warmest months in Wilmington?

In Wilmington, North Carolina, temperatures reach their average annual highs in July, measuring 87.6°F (30.9°C) and a minimum average of 75.4°F (24.1°C).

What is the most humid month in Wilmington?

The months with the highest humidity are August, September and December, with an average relative humidity of 77%.

What is the wettest month in Wilmington?

August is the month with the most rainfall in Wilmington. Rain falls for 22.3 days and accumulates 5.59" (142mm) of precipitation.

What month is the ocean warmest in Wilmington?

August is the month with the warmest seawater in Wilmington, North Carolina, with an average ocean temperature of 82.8°F (28.2°C).

What is the month with the shortest days in Wilmington?

December has the shortest days of the year in Wilmington, with an average of 9h and 54min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Wilmington?

December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.5h of sunshine.

Average temperature
Wilmington, NC

Average high temperature in January:
54°F
Average high temperature in February:
57.7°F
Average high temperature in March:
62.4°F
Average high temperature in April:
70.7°F
Average high temperature in May:
78.6°F
Average high temperature in June:
84.7°F

Average high temperature in July:
87.6°F
Average high temperature in August:
86.7°F
Average high temperature in September:
82.2°F
Average high temperature in October:
74.1°F
Average high temperature in November:
63.9°F
Average high temperature in December:
58.1°F

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (87.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (54°F).

Average low temperature in January:
40.1°F
Average low temperature in February:
43°F
Average low temperature in March:
48.4°F
Average low temperature in April:
57.6°F
Average low temperature in May:
65.5°F
Average low temperature in June:
72.5°F

Average low temperature in July:
75.4°F
Average low temperature in August:
74.7°F
Average low temperature in September:
70.3°F
Average low temperature in October:
60.4°F
Average low temperature in November:
50°F
Average low temperature in December:
45.5°F

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (75.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (40.1°F).

Average pressure
Wilmington, NC

The months with the highest atmospheric pressure are January and December (30.13"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.97"Hg).

Average wind speed
Wilmington, NC

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (9.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (7mph).

Average humidity
Wilmington, NC

The months with the highest relative humidity are August, September and December (77%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January and March (73%).

Average rainfall
Wilmington, NC

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (5.59").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (1.93").

Average rainfall days
Wilmington, NC

Average rainfall days in January:
11.9 days
Average rainfall days in February:
11.2 days
Average rainfall days in March:
13.7 days
Average rainfall days in April:
13.8 days
Average rainfall days in May:
16.3 days
Average rainfall days in June:
19.9 days

Average rainfall days in July:
21.9 days
Average rainfall days in August:
22.3 days
Average rainfall days in September:
17.7 days
Average rainfall days in October:
11.6 days
Average rainfall days in November:
10.6 days
Average rainfall days in December:
11.6 days

The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (22.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (10.6 days).

Average snowfall
Wilmington, NC

The month with the highest snowfall is January (0.75").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (0").

Average snowfall days
Wilmington, NC

Average snowfall days in January:
0.8 days
Average snowfall days in February:
0.3 days
Average snowfall days in March:
0.1 days
Average snowfall days in April:
0 days
Average snowfall days in May:
0 days
Average snowfall days in June:
0 days

Average snowfall days in July:
0 days
Average snowfall days in August:
0 days
Average snowfall days in September:
0 days
Average snowfall days in October:
0 days
Average snowfall days in November:
0 days
Average snowfall days in December:
0.1 days

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (0.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0 days).

Average sea temperature
Wilmington, NC

Average sea temperature in January:
60.7°F
Average sea temperature in February:
57.5°F
Average sea temperature in March:
58.5°F
Average sea temperature in April:
64.9°F
Average sea temperature in May:
70.7°F
Average sea temperature in June:
78.2°F

Average sea temperature in July:
82°F
Average sea temperature in August:
82.8°F
Average sea temperature in September:
80.4°F
Average sea temperature in October:
75.9°F
Average sea temperature in November:
67.9°F
Average sea temperature in December:
62.7°F

The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (82.8°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (57.5°F).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Wilmington, NC

Average daylight in January:
10h and 1min
Average daylight in February:
11h and 0min
Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min
Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min
Average daylight in May:
14h and 0min
Average daylight in June:
14h and 2min

Average daylight in July:
14h and 1min
Average daylight in August:
13h and 2min
Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min
Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min
Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min
Average daylight in December:
9h and 5min

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 54min).

Average sunshine in January:
5h and 4min
Average sunshine in February:
5h and 5min
Average sunshine in March:
7h and 2min
Average sunshine in April:
9h and 5min
Average sunshine in May:
10h and 1min
Average sunshine in June:
10h and 5min

Average sunshine in July:
10h and 5min
Average sunshine in August:
10h and 4min
Average sunshine in September:
9h and 2min
Average sunshine in October:
6h and 2min
Average sunshine in November:
6h and 0min
Average sunshine in December:
5h and 3min

The months with the most sunshine are June and July (Average sunshine: 10h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 30min).

Average sunshine days
Wilmington, NC

Average sunshine days in January:
17.1 days
Average sunshine days in February:
15.1 days
Average sunshine days in March:
15.8 days
Average sunshine days in April:
14.1 days
Average sunshine days in May:
11.7 days
Average sunshine days in June:
7 days

Average sunshine days in July:
6.4 days
Average sunshine days in August:
6.3 days
Average sunshine days in September:
9.8 days
Average sunshine days in October:
18.1 days
Average sunshine days in November:
17.4 days
Average sunshine days in December:
17.5 days

The month with the most sunshine days is October (18.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (6.3 days).

Average UV index
Wilmington, NC

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February and December (UV index 3).

Average cloud cover
Wilmington, NC

The months with the most cloud cover are February and December (Cloud cover 40).
The months with the least cloud cover are June and July (Cloud cover 27).

Average visibility
Wilmington, NC

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).

Climate and monthly weather forecastWilmington, NC

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