Honestly, if you've lived in the Mid-Atlantic for more than a week, you know the deal. One day you're hunting for a light hoodie, and the next, you're digging through the hall closet for that heavy parka you swore you wouldn't need this year.
Weather for Wilmington Delaware is famously fickle. It’s that weird geographical sweet spot where the Atlantic Ocean tries to keep things mild, while the Appalachian Mountains and the Delaware River have their own plans entirely.
Today, Sunday, January 18, 2026, is a perfect example of that "keep you on your toes" energy.
Right now, it’s a crisp 34°F. But don't let that number fool you. With the wind coming out of the north at 7 mph, it actually feels like 28°F. That’s the kind of damp, biting cold that seeps into your joints if you aren't moving fast enough. The sky is completely cloudy, and the humidity is sitting heavy at 90%. Basically, it’s a soup out there.
The Snow Surprise
Most people think Wilmington dodges the heavy white stuff because we’re "too far south" or "too close to the water."
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Kinda true, but also kinda not.
While our average annual snowfall is only about 13 inches—way less than what they deal with up in New England—we get these specific bursts that can shut down I-95 in twenty minutes. Today is looking like one of those days. There is a 68% chance of snow during the daytime.
If you're planning on hitting the Riverfront or grabbing a coffee downtown, do it early. That snow is the real deal, and with the high staying at 34°F, it’s going to be that wet, heavy slush that makes driving a total nightmare.
By tonight, things clear out, but the temperature is going to absolutely crater. We’re looking at a low of 19°F. When that wet slush on the roads meets sub-20 temperatures? Yeah, you’ve got a literal ice rink by Monday morning.
Why the Delaware River Changes Everything
You can't talk about Wilmington weather without mentioning the river.
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The Delaware River acts like a giant thermostat. In the early winter, it stays relatively "warm" compared to the air, which can sometimes turn a predicted snowstorm into a depressing gray drizzle. But by late January, the water has chilled down.
Experts from the Delaware Climate Office have pointed out that we're seeing some weird shifts lately. Since 1895, average temperatures in the state have climbed about 3 degrees. You might think, "Hey, warmer winters sound great," but it actually means our precipitation is getting more intense.
Instead of a steady, polite snowfall, we’re getting these "extreme rainfall" events or heavy, moisture-laden snow that breaks tree limbs and knocks out power in neighborhoods like Highlands or Trolley Square.
What You Actually Need to Wear
Forget the fashion magazines.
If you're out in Wilmington today, you need layers that handle moisture. Since the humidity is at 91% and snow is falling, a wool coat is going to get heavy and gross. Go with a waterproof shell over a down vest.
- Footwear: Avoid suede. Just don't do it. The salt and slush will ruin them before you reach your car.
- Headgear: A beanie is mandatory. With a north wind at 10 mph forecast for later today, your ears will thank you.
- Pro Tip: Keep an ice scraper in the front seat, not the trunk. If we get that 68% snow hit, you don't want to be digging through a snow-covered hatch just to find your tools.
Living with the "First State" Chill
It’s easy to get frustrated when the forecast says "clear" and you wake up to a dusting of ice.
The reality is that Wilmington is a transition zone. We’re caught between the humid subtropical vibes of the south and the humid continental climate of the north. This means our "normal" is actually just a series of extremes.
One thing most people get wrong is assuming the UV index doesn't matter in January. Even on a cloudy day like today with a UV index of 0, the reflection off the snow (if it sticks) can still be surprisingly bright. Though, honestly, today you're more worried about the 19°F overnight low than a sunburn.
Your Action Plan for the Week
Don't just sit there and wait for the ice to melt.
- Check the DENS: If you haven't signed up for the Delaware Emergency Notification System, do it now. It’s how the city tells you if there’s a snow emergency or if trash pickup is pushed back.
- Clear the Drains: If you have a storm drain near your house, kick the leaves and trash away from it. When this snow melts later this week, that water needs somewhere to go, or your street becomes a pond.
- Watch the Wind: That 10 mph north wind tonight is going to make the 19°F feel significantly colder. Check your outdoor faucets and make sure they're covered.
Wilmington weather is a bit of a gamble, but if you respect the humidity and the river's influence, you'll be fine. Just keep the salt bucket by the door and your boots by the radiator.