Charlotte, North Carolina – Blazing sunshine and dangerous heat return to the Charlotte area Friday, with temperatures expected to push 90°F by early afternoon. Drivers and outdoor workers in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties should prepare for a steamy start to the weekend and a sharp uptick in storm activity.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, a 30% chance of thunderstorms arrives after 3 p.m., with gusts up to 25 mph and localized rainfall amounts topping a quarter inch. While storms may stay isolated, outdoor plans across Charlotte, Concord, and along I-77 could face interruptions.
Friday’s high will hit 89°F, but the heat index may feel closer to the mid-90s. A shift in wind patterns — from southwest to northeast — will follow as the front exits, ushering in a calmer but scorching weekend.
Saturday through Monday, expect sunny skies and highs between 93°F and 96°F, with little nighttime relief. Humid conditions will continue, especially Sunday and Monday, when morning lows stay near 74°F. Those attending weekend events or spending extended time outdoors should hydrate often, wear light clothing, and avoid peak midday sun.
The next cooling chance doesn’t arrive until late next week, as hot conditions dominate the Carolinas through Tuesday.
Five-Day Forecast for Charlotte (June 19 – June 23):
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High: 92°F. Storm chance after 3 p.m.
- Friday: Patchy fog early, then mostly sunny. High: 89°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, hot. High: 93°F. Low: 72°F. Calm wind.
- Sunday: Sunny and hot. High: 96°F. Low: 74°F.
- Monday: Mostly clear, high near 98°F. Low: 75°F.