If you’ve got plans to travel through Wilmington this Wednesday afternoon, especially along I-95, you may want to hit pause. Forecasters are warning of heavy rain and strong thunderstorms barreling into the region by late afternoon, and the impacts could be more than just a passing inconvenience.
Flash flooding, hazardous roads, and traffic snarls are all on the table, especially on the heavily traveled stretch of I-95 that slices through the city. This is shaping up to be one of those days where even routine commutes turn into frustrating—and potentially dangerous—ordeals.
What’s Causing All the Chaos?
Let’s break it down simply: a warm, moisture-laden air mass is clashing with cooler air over the region, and that clash is fueling the kind of instability that sparks strong, fast-moving thunderstorms.
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Storms are expected to build after 4 p.m., just in time for the evening rush.
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Rain totals could reach half an inch or more, especially where storms hit hardest.
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Winds may gust up to 25 mph, adding to driving difficulty and potentially knocking down branches or debris.
This system isn’t a severe weather outbreak—but it’s exactly the kind of sneaky, disruptive event that catches people off guard, particularly drivers.
I-95 in Wilmington: A Flood Risk Zone
Why is I-95 a focal point? Because it’s low-lying in several stretches near Wilmington, and when heavy rain falls fast, water backs up quickly.
If you’ve ever driven this corridor during a downpour, you already know the risks: ponding water, blinding spray from passing vehicles, and stalled traffic. Wednesday’s weather will bring all of that—and maybe more.
Areas most likely to flood include:
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Underpasses and dips near city center ramps
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On/off ramps with poor drainage
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Neighborhoods near the Christina River, where runoff builds rapidly
Evening Forecast: Storms After Sundown
The rain isn’t going anywhere quickly. Even after sunset, showers and rumbles of thunder will linger. Temperatures will hold steady around 63°F, and the air will stay damp and heavy. Overnight travelers should stay alert, as waterlogged roads and low visibility could remain an issue well into the early hours of Thursday.
What About the Rest of the Week?
This storm system marks the start of a soggy stretch. Showers and thunderstorms are in the forecast again Thursday, though they’re expected to be a bit less intense. Temperatures will hover in the low-to-mid 70s, and a drier trend may emerge by the weekend.
What You Should Do Now
Here are a few easy but critical ways to stay safe and prepared:
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Delay unnecessary travel after 4 p.m. if you can—especially along I-95
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Charge your devices in case of power flickers
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Don’t try to drive through flooded areas—it only takes a few inches of water to stall your car or worse
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Monitor local alerts and radar updates throughout the day
