Raleigh, North Carolina – A punishing stretch of summer heat returns to central North Carolina this Thursday, July 24th, putting Raleigh-area residents on high alert for rapidly rising temperatures and a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. The National Weather Service is urging everyone to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and keep a close eye on vulnerable neighbors as high temperatures reach 91°F and humidity surges.
According to the latest outlook from the National Weather Service in Raleigh, skies will be mostly sunny early Thursday before clouds build and isolated thunderstorms develop after 2 p.m. Calm winds in the morning will shift northeast around 5 mph by afternoon. Though the chance of storms sits at just 20%, any cell that forms could bring brief, heavy rain and lightning—especially near busy corridors like I-40 and I-440.
Friday marks the beginning of a prolonged heatwave. Sunshine dominates, with a high near 96°F in Raleigh and surrounding Wake County, intensifying the risk of heat-related illnesses. Overnight lows in the mid-70s will offer little relief. By Saturday and Sunday, high temperatures stay in the mid-to-upper 90s, and some neighborhoods could see the heat index approach triple digits.
Health officials urge residents to avoid strenuous activities during the afternoon, check on elderly relatives, and never leave children or pets in vehicles. Drink water frequently, and use air conditioning if available.
More hot, sunny days are in store through early next week. Brief relief comes at night with partly cloudy skies, but the heat returns each day. Stay tuned for further updates and potential advisories as this summer pattern holds.
Five-Day Raleigh Weather Outlook:
- Thursday, July 24: Mostly sunny, high 91°F. Slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
- Friday, July 25: Sunny, high 96°F. Overnight low 78°F.
- Saturday, July 26: Hot and sunny, high 99°F. Night low 78°F.
- Sunday, July 27: Sunny and hot, high near 98°F. Night low 77°F.
- Monday, July 28: Continued heat, sunny, high 96°F. Night low 76°F.
