Raleigh is starting Saturday with muggy air and temperatures around 75 degrees, but the day will heat up quickly. The forecast calls for a high near 94, with the heat index reaching 105. Late-day thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor plans, and even hotter conditions are expected early next week.
Heat Builds Through Saturday Afternoon
Temperatures will climb through the 80s and reach the low 90s during the afternoon under mostly sunny skies. Winds should stay light from the north, while humidity keeps conditions feeling significantly hotter than the thermometer suggests.
A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for parts of southern central North Carolina, while the National Weather Service in Raleigh says heat indices could reach 100 degrees or higher across the region. Raleigh's forecast heat index is expected to peak near 105.
Storms Could Crash Late-Day Plans
Raleigh has a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Saturday, with the rain chance rising to 30% Saturday night before 11 p.m. Most neighborhoods may stay dry, but any storm that forms could bring a quick downpour and gusty winds.
The broader central North Carolina forecast warns that a few storms could become strong to severe this afternoon and evening. Damaging winds are the main concern, so outdoor events should have a sturdy indoor backup once thunder starts building.
Sunday Stays Hot Before Monday Turns Brutal
Sunday will be partly sunny with a high near 95 and a heat index as high as 107. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are most likely after 2 p.m., followed by another chance of storms Sunday night and a low around 77.
Monday is expected to be the hottest day of the stretch, with sunny skies and a high near 100. The National Weather Service says heat indices could reach 110 degrees in some areas, with excessive heat possible Monday and Tuesday.
Little Relief Arrives Midweek
Tuesday and Wednesday should remain mostly sunny with highs near 95, followed by overnight lows in the low to mid-70s. Thursday brings another hot day near 97 and a 40% chance of afternoon storms, while Friday looks somewhat cooler near 90 with additional shower and thunderstorm chances.
Plan Around The Heat
Raleigh officials recommend moving strenuous outdoor activities to the early morning or evening, taking frequent breaks and drinking plenty of fluids. The city's heat-safety guidance also advises residents to check on older neighbors and never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.
