Dangerous heat expected across the Carolinas for 4th of July Week

Good Saturday morning…by the time you are likely reading this.

The major weather story developing is the anticipated heat wave that will develop across the Eastern US next week.

A sprawling area of high pressure will settle in and be quite strong. Temperatures in the lower 90’s this weekend will become mid-and-upper 90’s by mid next week.

According to available computer guidance, the 500mb ridge will be centered over Virginia with 850 mb temperatures (5,000 ft) over the Southern Appalachians the warmest of any location east of the Rockies.

---

---

For our coverage area, high temperatures beginning Thursday could approach 100 degrees for a lot of locations east of the mountains. Humidity levels combined with the extreme heat could result in heat index values of 105-108 degrees, which is well within heat advisory criteria by the National Weather Service.

Temperatures of around 100 degrees is 10-13 degrees above the norm for early July. The threat of 100-degree heat may continue through the 4th of July.

---

---

Heat impacts to outdoor activities

The dangerous heat could have a major impact to the public if you do not prepare ahead of time. Consumption of water and high-electrolyte sports drinks is encouraged. Consumption of sodas and alcohol could adversely impact the body in this kind of weather.

If you have to work outdoors, early mornings is the best time to work. Also, kids, pets and the elderly are most prone to the impacts of heat exhaustion.

---