Raleigh, North Carolina – Residents across Raleigh and Wake County should brace for intensifying summer heat this week, as temperatures climb toward 98°F by Saturday, potentially creating hazardous conditions for outdoor activities.
According to the National Weather Service, Tuesday will bring mostly sunny skies with highs near 90°F and gentle northeast winds around 8 mph. The heat ramps up through the week, with Wednesday and Thursday topping out in the low 90s and a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms developing late Thursday afternoon. Humidity levels will keep the heat index elevated, especially during peak afternoon hours.
By Friday, temperatures are forecasted to hit 96°F, with the hottest stretch arriving Saturday as Raleigh pushes close to triple digits. Overnight lows offer little relief, hovering in the upper 70s. The pattern brings heightened risk for heat-related illness, particularly for those working outdoors, young children, and seniors. City cooling centers may open if the trend continues.
Travelers and commuters along I-40, I-440, and local roads should monitor updates for any rapid storm development, especially Thursday and through the weekend. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor work, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Charging devices and reviewing home cooling options is recommended in case of scattered thunderstorms that could knock out power.
The hot, mostly dry conditions persist through Sunday, when the chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms rises to 30 percent. More advisories may follow as the pattern develops.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC:
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 90°F, light NE wind.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 90°F, low near 70°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 92°F, 20% chance of afternoon storms.
- Friday: Sunny, high 96°F, low 77°F.
- Saturday: Hot and mostly sunny, high 98°F, low 77°F.
Stay tuned for further updates as this July heat wave builds.
