Stay safe, Wilmington.

State officials are urging residents across North Carolina to prepare for severe weather today after the National Weather Service issued a rare Level 4 moderate risk for parts of the state. Damaging winds, hail, and possible tornadoes are the primary concerns.

Make sure your devices are charged, emergency alerts are enabled, and you’re staying informed throughout the day.

You can check the latest conditions and preparedness guidance here:

https://www.readync.gov/

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Wrightsville Beach Weighs Possible Property Tax Increase

• Former North Carolina Deputy and Family Plead Guilty to COVID Loan Fraud

Wrightsville Beach Weighs Possible Property Tax Increase Amid Flat Revenues

Port City Daily Wrightsville Beach leaders say the town’s revenues have essentially “flat lined,” prompting early discussions about potentially raising the property tax rate for the first time in more than a decade as they plan the 2026–2027 budget. Officials say growing infrastructure needs—like bulkhead replacements, facility improvements, and higher employee compensation—are colliding with limited revenue growth in the small beach town, which relies heavily on weather-dependent sources such as parking, tourism, and occupancy taxes.

Read More >>

Former North Carolina Deputy and Family Plead Guilty to COVID Loan Fraud

Carolina Journal A former Robeson County sheriff’s deputy and three of his family members have pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy in a scheme that stole $542,288 in Economic Injury Disaster Loan and Paycheck Protection Program funds by submitting false applications and documentation. They must repay the stolen funds and face up to 30‑year prison terms and a $1 million fine, as U.S. Attorney’s Office efforts continue to hold COVID loan fraudsters accountable.

Read More >>

News Roundup

Local News

NC officials issue rare statewide Level 4 severe weather warning for Monday, urging Wilmington-area residents to prepare. Damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes expected; schools altering schedules, Battleship NC closing early. Enable alerts and have shelter plans. WECT

Battleship North Carolina closes early at noon Monday due to severe weather threat impacting Wilmington area. Safety of visitors, staff prioritized amid statewide Level 4 risk of damaging winds, hail, tornadoes; tours/events suspended until Tue reopening. Schools altering schedules. WECT

Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC hosts pop-up market in Wilmington. Free event provides fresh food access; part of ongoing efforts to combat regional food insecurity. WECT

What You Should Know

Israel says it has detailed plans for at least three more weeks of war as its air campaign intensifies across Iran. The ongoing conflict has expanded with reported strikes in multiple Iranian cities and drone attacks in the region, raising global concerns over oil supply disruptions and rising prices. U.S. calls for international support to secure key shipping routes have received cautious responses from allies. Reuters

What Might Surprise You

Tucker Carlson claims the CIA is preparing a criminal referral to the Justice Department and may seek to charge him under foreign agent laws over his communications with Iranian contacts. He alleges that intelligence officials read his text messages and are targeting him for “talking to people in Iran” before the conflict, though he says he is not a foreign agent and has not taken foreign money; no evidence has been publicly provided and officials have not confirmed the claims. Mediaite

National News

The 2026 Academy Awards winners list has been revealed, highlighting the night’s top films, actors, and historic milestones. The ceremony recognized major categories including Best Picture, acting awards, and newly introduced honors, with full results updated in CNN’s live coverage. CNN

☘️ Tuesday ☘️ 

Wednesday