Raleigh, North Carolina – Dangerous heat is on the way for Raleigh and much of central North Carolina as temperatures surge heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Hazardous Weather Outlook is in effect for Friday, July 25, with heat index values peaking between 100° and 104°F. The alert spans across Wake, Durham, Johnston, and Cumberland counties. Forecasters warn that hot temperatures and rising humidity will combine to produce conditions that increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations.
Residents should avoid strenuous outdoor activity between noon and 6 p.m., stay hydrated, and check on pets and elderly neighbors. Cooling centers may open if conditions worsen. Travel corridors like U.S. Route 401 and Interstate 40 could also become dangerous for stranded drivers during peak heat.
Friday marks the beginning of a multi-day heat wave:
🔥 Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh
- Friday, July 25 – Sunny and hot, high 98°F, heat index up to 104°. Light winds from the west.
- Saturday, July 26 – Hot again, high 100°F, partly cloudy by night with a low near 78°F.
- Sunday, July 27 – Heat intensifies, high 101°F, mostly sunny. Nighttime low around 80°F.
- Monday, July 28 – Slight relief, high near 99°F, mostly sunny. Low around 76°F.
- Tuesday, July 29 – Still hot, high near 100°F, mostly clear overnight with a low around 77°F.
The heat will linger into Wednesday, July 30, with highs still near 101°F. No thunderstorms are currently expected, offering little relief. Stay tuned for potential advisories or expanded warnings if the pattern worsens.
