Raleigh woke up in a foggy, sticky haze Thursday, with mist hanging over the Triangle and setting the tone for another brutally hot day. Before sunrise, RDU's official observation logged mist and a muggy 74°F, and temperatures are set to rocket into the mid to upper 90s this afternoon. Factor in the humidity and it will feel more like the low 100s in some spots.
Heat Advisory For Southern Coastal Plain
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 AM to 8 PM EDT Thursday, July 9, 2026, for portions of the southern Coastal Plain, including Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Johnston, Sampson, Scotland and Wayne counties. Highs are expected to reach around 96°F, with heat index values climbing into the low 100s. People who are vulnerable to the heat are urged to avoid prolonged outdoor activity during those advisory hours.
Afternoon Heat And Commute
By this afternoon, skies will turn mostly sunny with light west winds around 1 to 8 mph. Hourly guidance shows temperatures topping out between 94°F and 97°F in the late afternoon, right when many commuters are heading home. Outdoor workers, athletes and anyone with health concerns should plan for frequent water breaks, seek air conditioning during peak heating, and push any strenuous tasks to a cooler part of the day if possible.
Weekend Storm Chances
A cold front will slide in late Friday into the weekend, shaking up the pattern and bringing a chance for showers and thunderstorms. Storms are possible Friday afternoon with about a 30% chance, then more likely Saturday when the chance jumps to around 70%. If storms fire, expect brief heavy downpours along with gusty, potentially damaging winds, so organizers of outdoor plans and events should keep a close eye on the sky and on updated forecasts.
Where To Find Cool Air
Per the City of Raleigh, public cooling options and community centers may open during periods of extreme heat. Wake County has listed the Wake County Health & Human Services Center at 5809 Departure Drive as one designated relief site. If you do not have reliable air conditioning, head to a cooling location, check local library hours, or call city and county offices to confirm the latest openings and schedules.
What To Watch
Residents should monitor forecasts through Friday as the cold front approaches and keep an eye out for any watches or warnings for developing storms Saturday afternoon. For the latest conditions and any changes to advisories, follow updates from the National Weather Service and local officials before spending extended time outdoors.
