A life-threatening heat event is now unfolding across North Carolina, with an Excessive Heat Warning in effect for Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, and surrounding communities. Temperatures are forecast to hit as high as 104 degrees Friday — levels that can become fatal within hours for those without access to cooling.
Raleigh is expected to reach 104 degrees, making it the hottest point in the state. Durham and Fayetteville are each forecast at 102 degrees, while Greensboro, Wilson, and Rocky Mount are expected to hit 101 degrees. Heat index values — what the air actually feels like on skin — could climb to 110 degrees or higher in the warning zone.
Raleigh 104°F Excessive Heat Warning
Durham 102°F Excessive Heat Warning
Greensboro 101°F Excessive Heat Warning
Charlotte 101°F Heat Advisory
Wilmington 95°F Heat Advisory
Asheville 93°F No Warning
A broader Heat Advisory covers most of the rest of the state, excluding the mountains and the coast. Charlotte and Monroe are both expected to reach 101 degrees, while Statesville, Hickory, and Lumberton are forecast at 100 degrees. Even in the advisory zone, heat index values are expected to feel like up to 110 degrees — conditions serious enough to cause heat exhaustion or heatstroke, especially in the elderly, children, and those working outdoors.
The mountains and beaches are seeing comparatively milder conditions. Asheville is forecast at 93 degrees, while Highlands and Cashiers stay around 86 degrees. Coastal communities including Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach are expected near 89 to 90 degrees. Isolated storms are possible across the mountains and foothills through the afternoon and evening, offering minimal but limited relief.
Residents in the warning zone are urged to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, drink water regularly even without feeling thirsty, and check on elderly neighbors and relatives. Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles. Those without home cooling should locate a nearby cooling center before temperatures peak Friday afternoon.
