Record Heat Hits North Carolina, But Some Relief Is Coming

The heat wave in North Carolina is causing record high temperatures in some areas of the state, including the Triad.

But where's it coming from? The short answer: a feature called a subtropical high is parked over the southeastern United States.  That's why it's so hot. But what's making it feel even worse is the humidity.

Brandon Locklear, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Raleigh, says the Triad is experiencing very high heat indexes that are potentially dangerous.

"When you combine the temperatures in the mid to upper 90s with these really high dew points in the mid to upper 70s, we start seeing heat indexes of 105 to 110 degrees,” says Locklear. “That's when it really starts to take a toll on the body.”

These scorching temperatures are raising safety concerns across the state. In Cumberland County, the town of Spring Lake temporarily suspended disconnecting residents water for unpaid bills. Likewise, some sports programs in the Triad are adjusting their practice schedules.

To stay safe, Locklear says people should limit their outdoor activities until after 6:00 p.m. and stay hydrated. And he suggests checking on the elderly and other neighbors who make not have air conditioning.

The good news: some relief is on the way. The National Weather Service says temperatures will return to their normal levels – the lower 90s – this weekend. We'll also see an increased chance of daily showers and storms early next week.

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