Charlotte, North Carolina, is bracing for a dangerous stretch of hot and humid weather, beginning Saturday and continuing through early next week. Temperatures are expected to climb to 92°F on Saturday, and by Sunday and Monday, heat indices could approach 100°F. This building heatwave, according to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, will peak early next week, bringing the hottest conditions of the season to the Carolinas.
What to Expect Over the Weekend
The heat will kick off on Saturday with sunny skies and light southeast winds. The high temperature on Saturday will reach 92°F, and by Sunday, it will rise slightly to 93°F. The hot conditions will continue on Monday, with highs reaching 96°F. The heat will be accompanied by dry, hazy conditions, making it feel even hotter. Drivers on I-77 and I-85 should avoid extended travel during peak heat hours between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., as sun exposure and surface temperatures will be at their highest.
Heat Risks and Safety Tips
Although no official heat advisory is in effect yet, residents should be prepared for the intense heat. Heat-related illnesses become more likely starting Monday and Tuesday, especially if precautions aren’t taken. The National Weather Service suggests staying indoors as much as possible, using air conditioning when available, and staying hydrated. If you must be outside, wear light, breathable clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion. Areas east of the mountains, including Charlotte, could meet the criteria for a Heat Advisory by Tuesday afternoon, so it’s important to stay updated on weather alerts.
Little Overnight Relief
While the heat will be intense during the day, the nights won’t offer much relief. Expect mostly clear skies with lows around 74°F to 75°F, which will keep the temperatures warm even during the nighttime hours. This lack of overnight cooling could make it harder to recover from the daytime heat, especially for those without air conditioning.
What’s Ahead
Conditions will remain dry and extremely hot through midweek, with temperatures expected to stay in the 90s, reaching up to 98°F by Tuesday. The heat index could make it feel as hot as 102°F. Stay tuned for updates, as heat advisories may be issued by Monday morning for the Charlotte area.
Charlotte is facing a hot and dangerous weekend with rising temperatures and increasing heat indices. It’s essential to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated, especially as the heatwave peaks early next week. Keep an eye on local weather updates for possible advisories and stay safe during the extreme conditions.