Raleigh woke up in a sweat this morning, with temperatures already in the upper 70s at Raleigh-Durham Airport and sticky dew points near 73°F. It only gets more intense from here. The high is expected to reach about 98°F today, Saturday, July 18, with heat-index values soaring to around 110°F this afternoon. That brutal combo of heat and humidity is the main concern for the Triangle today.
Heat Advisory In Effect
A Heat Advisory is in place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT Saturday, and forecasters warn that prolonged time outside could lead to heat illness. According to the National Weather Service Raleigh, southwest winds of 3 to 10 mph with gusts up to 18 mph are expected, and heat indices will climb into the 105 to 110°F range. The City of Raleigh is steering residents toward cooling centers, libraries, and community centers if they need a break from the heat.
Late-Day Storms Possible
Relief may come with a side of thunder. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are possible after 4 p.m., with a better shot at scattered storms this evening, mainly between about 8 p.m. and 3 a.m. Some storms could turn strong to severe, with damaging wind gusts and brief heavy downpours the primary threats, so any outdoor plans should have a quick indoor backup ready. Tonight's storms are expected to be spotty, but heavier rounds are likely to return Sunday night, with localized rainfall totals of up to three-quarters of an inch in a few areas.
Through The Week
The pattern stays hot and unsettled through midweek, with highs holding in the low to mid 90s and daily chances for afternoon or evening storms through Wednesday. Monday's showers and storms may drop a few tenths of an inch of rain in spots, and forecasters say Wednesday could feature a more organized front with an elevated risk for severe storms. Anyone with outdoor plans later in the week should keep up with forecast updates over the next 48 to 72 hours.
Plan Ahead
To stay safe, keep water handy, limit strenuous activity during the midday and afternoon hours, and move events indoors where you can during peak heating. Check on older relatives and neighbors, make sure pets have shade and plenty of water, and budget extra time for commutes in case lightning or downpours slow traffic. For official forecast details and information on cooling centers, see the National Weather Service and City of Raleigh websites.
