Honestly, if you've lived in the Mid-Atlantic for more than five minutes, you know the sky in January has a mind of its own. One second you're scraping frost off a windshield in Wilmington, and the next, you're wondering if that southern breeze is actually trying to be nice for once.
Today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, it's basically the definition of "undecided." We are sitting at a cool 38°F right now. But don't let that number fool you. With the wind coming out of the south at about 7 mph, it feels more like 32°F. It’s cloudy, it’s grey, and it’s very much Wilmington in the dead of winter.
The Reality of the 10 Day Weather Forecast Wilmington DE
Here is the thing about the 10 day weather forecast Wilmington DE right now: it is a rollercoaster of "maybe snow" and "definitely cold."
Today’s high is expected to hit 39°F, but the real story is the precipitation. We are looking at a 73% chance of snow during the day. It’s that messy rain and snow mix that makes the roads around Market Street just a little bit treacherous. Tonight, that chance drops to 25%, with a low of 33°F.
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If you are planning out the next week, keep your boots by the door.
- Sunday, Jan 18: We’re looking at a high of 35°F and a low of 21°F. There is a 50% chance of snow, so the weekend might end on a white note.
- Monday, Jan 19: Finally, some sun. It stays cold, though—high of 35°F and a biting low of 18°F.
- Tuesday, Jan 20: This looks like the coldest stretch. A high of only 22°F and a low of 13°F. If you have outdoor pets or plants that shouldn't be out, this is the night to bring them in.
- The Rest of the Week: We see a slight "warm-up" (if you can call it that) back into the mid-30s. By Friday, Jan 23, we’re back to mostly sunny skies with a high of 35°F.
Why Wilmington Weather is So Unpredictable
You’ve probably noticed that the forecast changes every time you refresh your phone. That is because Wilmington sits in a weird geographical pocket. We get the moisture from the Atlantic, but we also get the hammer of cold air coming down from the Appalachian ridges.
According to the Delaware Climate Office, January is historically our coldest month. While we average around 39°F for a high, years like 2025 showed us just how dry and bitter it can get when the jet stream decides to dip.
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Actually, the National Weather Service has been keeping a close eye on these "snow squall" patterns. Just a few days ago, on January 14, we saw how fast things can turn from a clear morning to a blinding white-out.
Survival Tips for a Delaware January
It isn't just about the temperature; it's the humidity. Wilmington averages about 54% to 63% humidity this time of year. That moisture makes the cold "sink" into your bones.
- Layers are your best friend. Don't just wear one giant coat. Wear a base layer that wicks moisture.
- Watch the South Wind. Today’s wind is from the south, which usually brings moisture. When it shifts to the Northwest (which we expect Sunday), that is when the real "teeth" of winter come out.
- Check your tires. With the rain/snow mix today, the black ice risk on I-95 is real.
Basically, the next ten days are going to be a test of patience. We'll see plenty of sun early next week, but it comes at the cost of freezing temperatures.
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If you're heading out today, expect that 73% chance of snow to manifest as a slushy mess. Keep an eye on the barometer—it’s currently around 30.05 in, which is steady, but that moisture is definitely hanging around.
Next Steps for Wilmington Residents:
- Prepare for Tuesday’s freeze: With a predicted low of 13°F, ensure your pipes are insulated and outdoor faucets are covered.
- Monitor Saturday afternoon travel: Given the 73% snow probability, check local traffic sensors before heading toward the Riverfront or North Wilmington.
- Salt your walkways tonight: As the temperature drops to 33°F and moisture lingers, Saturday night will likely see refreezing on untreated surfaces.