Raleigh, N.C. – Sweltering summer heat will grip central North Carolina Friday, with heat index values soaring up to 102° by mid-afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory until 7 p.m. Friday, warning that the combination of high temperatures and humidity could lead to heat-related illnesses if precautions aren’t taken.
According to the NWS Raleigh office, the advisory covers key cities including Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and Wilson. Dangerously high temperatures are expected between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., with “feels-like” values especially brutal along the I-40 and I-85 corridors.
Outdoor workers, athletes, and those without air conditioning are most at risk. Health officials urge residents to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If symptoms of heat exhaustion occur—such as dizziness or rapid heartbeat—seek medical attention immediately.
Friday’s actual high will top out near 94°F, under mostly sunny skies. Afternoon storms may offer temporary relief, but humidity will remain oppressive into the evening.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC
- Thursday (June 26): High 96°F, heat index up to 107°, slight chance of storms after 2 p.m.
- Friday (June 27): High 94°F, heat index again near 102°, 20% chance of late-day storms.
- Saturday (June 28): High 94°F, partly sunny with isolated PM thunderstorms (30% chance).
- Sunday (June 29): High 95°F, sunny and humid, 30% chance of PM storms.
- Monday (June 30): High 92°F, chance of storms increases to 40% by afternoon.
Looking ahead to the weekend: Hot, sticky weather continues with limited storm relief. Storm chances tick upward again Monday and Tuesday, signaling a potentially wetter start to July. Keep an eye on local alerts, especially if attending outdoor events or traveling along major routes like US-64 or NC-147.
