Raleigh, NC – A surge of oppressive heat will grip the Raleigh area Wednesday, sending the heat index climbing to a dangerous 103 degrees just before the Juneteenth holiday. This blast of early summer heat creates significant health risks and precedes a pattern of afternoon thunderstorms expected later in the week.
According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday will be sunny with an actual high near 95°F. Brisk southwest winds gusting up to 20 mph will offer little relief from the sweltering conditions. Residents should prepare for the first major heat wave of the season by limiting strenuous outdoor activities, especially during the peak afternoon hours. Staying hydrated and seeking air-conditioned spaces is crucial.
The weather pattern shifts slightly for the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday. While the high will remain around a very hot 95°F, the chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms increases to 40%. Anyone planning to attend outdoor events should monitor the skies closely and have a plan to seek shelter if storms develop after 2 p.m. These pop-up storms could bring brief heavy downpours and lightning.
Looking toward the weekend, the heat remains a dominant feature. Friday will be mostly sunny with a high near 91°F. The heat rebuilds Saturday and Sunday, with sunny skies and high temperatures climbing into the mid-to-upper 90s. The chance for isolated afternoon storms will be a daily possibility.
Residents are advised to check on neighbors, particularly the elderly and those without reliable air conditioning, throughout this extended period of high heat.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Raleigh:
- Tuesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. High near 92°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 95°F and a heat index up to 103°F.
- Thursday (Juneteenth): A 40% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 95°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 91°F.
- Saturday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 94°F.
