Charlotte woke up to clear skies and comfortably cool low 60s early today, but the mellow start is not sticking around for long. Expect mostly sunny skies and a high near 91°F this afternoon with a light southwest breeze. Humidity will build through the weekend as the region warms, so those afternoon plans are going to feel a lot stickier each day.
Storms Roll In Friday as Temperatures Climb
Showers and a few thunderstorms are likely to move back into the area by Friday afternoon, June 26, with the best shot at wet weather in the evening and across the foothills. The National Weather Service is calling for about a 30% chance of storms on Friday, with gusts in stronger cells that could reach around 18 mph, while weekend highs jump into the mid-90s. Overnight lows will stay muggy, near 70°F, so it is worth having a backup plan for any late-night or outdoor events.
Heat Safety and Where To Cool Off
By early next week, heat indices are expected to climb into the 100–103°F range each afternoon across much of the Piedmont, with some of the lower-lying spots possibly hitting advisory-level readings near 105°F by mid-week. To help residents beat the worst of it, Mecklenburg County and partner agencies have opened recreation centers, libraries, pools and spraygrounds as cooling stations, and CATS will offer rides to many of these designated locations for anyone needing relief. If you have to be outside, drink water frequently, wear light-colored, breathable clothing, and move strenuous work to the early morning or later evening hours. See resources from Mecklenburg County.
Timing Your Outdoor Plans
Today should work for most errands and patio time, but Friday’s afternoon storms and increasingly hot afternoons as the weekend approaches could cut into outdoor plans. Check radar before you head out, keep water handy for kids and pets, and consider shifting long runs or heavy yardwork indoors or to cooler parts of the day. Updates will follow if an official heat advisory is issued for the Charlotte area.
