Autumn Will Arrive in Wilmington Tuesday

As summer concludes, Wilmington will see cooling temperatures and rain showers throughout the week.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Forecasts

A rain-slicked coastal city street framed by moss-covered oak trees under a cool, overcast autumn sky. — Autumn officially arrives in Wilmington on Tuesday as cooling temperatures and light rain showers transition the region away from summer heat. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time to prepare your home for the upcoming seasonal weather changes?

Fall officially begins on September 22, 2026, at 8:04 p.m. in Wilmington. Temperatures will trend downward throughout the week as residents move past the summer heat.

Why it matters

The change in season marks a transition to milder weather following a period of high temperatures. A low-pressure system shifting off the Outer Banks will influence local conditions as the autumn season begins.

Wilmington will see highs drop from 89 degrees Monday to 77 degrees by Thursday and Friday. Rain chances fluctuate between 10% and 50% throughout the week.

The players

Subtropical storm Fay

This is a storm system currently located in the eastern Atlantic that is projected to dissipate by midweek.

The details

Subtropical storm Fay, currently located in the eastern Atlantic, is expected to dissipate by midweek due to high wind shear. Local weather will be influenced by low-pressure systems sharpening off the Outer Banks with rain cells moving from north to south.

September 21, 2026: A high of 89 degrees is expected.
September 22, 2026: Autumn arrives at 8:04 p.m.
September 23, 2026: A high of 80 degrees is expected.
September 24, 2026: A high of 77 degrees is expected.
Midweek 2026: Subtropical storm Fay is expected to dissipate.

Seasonal Patterns

The arrival of autumn follows the standard annual cycle of the autumnal equinox. This transition reflects historical seasonal cooling trends experienced in the region at this time of year.

Residents should prepare for fluctuating rain chances peaking at 50% on Tuesday and Thursday. Plan for cooler temperatures that will reach as low as 77 degrees toward the end of the week.

The takeaway

The end of summer brings a notable decline in daily high temperatures across the city. Residents can expect a shift toward more moderate fall weather as the week progresses.