Wilmington, DE Weather

60°F

Chance Rain Showers

Data: NOAA/National Weather Service. Forecast updated Oct 17, 2026, 1:02 AM UTC. Discussion issued Oct 16, 2026, 11:06 PM UTC.

Air Quality Index: 17 (Good)

Will it hit me? Next 2 hours in Wilmington

Rain likely now and through the next 2 hours.

  1. · 40% · Chance Rain Showers
  2. · 50% · Chance Rain Showers
  3. · 45% · Chance Rain Showers

Storm arrival times

  • Storm cell 25 mi SW of Wilmington, moving NE at 64 mph; could arrive around 1:38 AM EDT.
  • Storm cell 39 mi SW of Wilmington, moving NE at 78 mph; could arrive around 1:45 AM EDT.
  • Storm cell 41 mi S of Wilmington, moving NE at 49 mph; not on track to reach Wilmington.

Hourly NWS forecast and radar storm motion. Times are local. Not an official warning; follow NWS.

Share: storm card image · live radar

Local discussion

  • Severe weather chances are decreasing as a cold front moves through the area.
  • Expect frost and freeze conditions Saturday night into Sunday morning.
  • A nor'easter may develop off the coast early next week, bringing uncertain impacts.

Hazards

  • Cold: Frost and freeze conditions expected. (Saturday night into Sunday morning; eastern PA and northern NJ)
  • Wind: Gale warnings in effect with winds up to 40 mph. (Saturday; marine areas)

Wilmington, DE Climate Overview

Wilmington, Delaware, located at 39.7391°N latitude and 75.5398°W longitude, experiences a humid subtropical climate. This classification is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, with distinct seasonal changes. The city's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean moderates temperatures somewhat, preventing extreme variations typical of more inland locations.

In Wilmington, summer temperatures typically range from highs around 85°F to lows near 70°F. Winters are generally mild, with average highs around 42°F and lows dipping to about 27°F. Spring and fall serve as transitional periods with moderate temperatures and pleasant weather, often marked by highs ranging from 55°F to 75°F.

Annual precipitation in Wilmington averages about 45 inches, distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. July is usually the wettest month, while February tends to be the driest. Snowfall is moderate, with the city receiving approximately 20 inches annually, primarily from December through March. Wilmington occasionally experiences nor'easters, which can bring heavy snow and strong winds.

The city's weather can be influenced by various phenomena, including the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes during late summer and early autumn due to its position along the Eastern Seaboard. However, storms typically weaken by the time they reach this far inland. Wilmington is not prone to tornadoes or extreme heat, but ice storms can occur in winter, impacting travel and infrastructure.

Geographically, Wilmington is situated near the Delaware River and is relatively low in elevation, which contributes to its humid climate and susceptibility to coastal weather systems. This geographic setting, coupled with its latitude, plays a significant role in shaping the overall climate patterns experienced by the city.