Wilmington, N.C. – Dangerous heat continues to grip eastern North Carolina on Wednesday, with temperatures soaring near 100° and heat indices approaching 110° in some areas. Afternoon storms could bring damaging winds and large hail, posing a secondary threat.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, an Excessive Heat Warning and Heat Advisory remain in effect for counties including Bladen, Pender, New Hanover, Brunswick, Robeson, and Columbus until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop by late afternoon, with a few potentially becoming severe.
Communities such as Lumberton, Elizabethtown, and Burgaw could see heat-related impacts including increased risk of heat stroke, especially for those without adequate cooling or hydration. Thunderstorms may produce wind gusts over 60 mph and hail across inland areas stretching west toward Laurinburg and Bennettsville.
Residents are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, check on vulnerable neighbors, and never leave children or pets in parked vehicles. Drink plenty of water and find shaded or air-conditioned spaces when possible.
Conditions may ease slightly by Thursday, but more heat and storms are possible later this week. Additional warnings could be issued as conditions evolve.
