Newport, North Carolina – A brutal wave of heat is set to slam Eastern North Carolina on Thursday, with real-feel temperatures reaching 109° by mid-afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a heat advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday and could be extended Friday as temperatures soar into the 90s and humidity pushes heat index values into triple digits. Residents from New Bern to Beaufort and along US-70 should take extra precautions, especially during the hottest hours between 1 and 5 p.m.
High heat and humidity can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Officials urge everyone to drink water regularly, avoid outdoor activity if possible, and check on vulnerable neighbors or pets. Anyone working outdoors should take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.
Friday’s forecast calls for mostly sunny skies with a high near 93°, followed by a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Winds could gust up to 16 mph, adding discomfort but little relief.
Looking ahead:
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 90°, with slight storm chances after 2 p.m.
- Sunday: Clear skies, highs near 90°
- Monday: Showers and storms likely after 2 p.m., high near 89°
- Tuesday: Another round of storms possible, high near 89°
- Wednesday: Wettest day in the stretch, with a 60% chance of rain and storms
