RALEIGH, N.C. – Fall may be arriving on the calendar this week, but North Carolina residents will feel more like summer with highs pushing into the upper 80s and low 90s through Wednesday. Afternoon heat will be most noticeable in Fayetteville, Goldsboro, and Raleigh, where temperatures could top 91 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, the Autumnal Equinox begins at 2:19 p.m. Tuesday, marking the start of astronomical fall. Despite the seasonal shift, temperatures will stay well above normal, with only a slight cool down expected later in the week.
Communities from Greensboro to Rocky Mount are expected to stay hot, with highs ranging between 86 and 92 through midweek. Those heading outdoors should stay hydrated and limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon hours. The heat could also stress those without reliable air conditioning, especially in urban areas where overnight lows remain mild.
By Thursday, a gradual cooling trend will drop temperatures into the mid-80s, bringing a more seasonable feel by the weekend.
Five Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC:
- Monday: High 87, Low 66, mostly sunny
- Tuesday: High 90, Low 65, hot and sunny
- Wednesday: High 91, Low 66, mostly sunny
- Thursday: High 87, Low 63, slight breeze, partly cloudy
- Friday: High 85, Low 61, more comfortable with sunny skies
