If you’ve been waiting for some relief from the heat, it’s going to take a few more days. The hottest stretch of the summer so far is settling across the Carolinas as a very strong upper-level ridge continues to build overhead. While earlier forecasts hinted at the possibility of a historic heat wave, it now appears we’ll likely stay just shy of that mark. Even so, this will still be one of the hottest periods we’ve experienced in several years, and the heat will become dangerous for anyone spending extended time outdoors.

Here’s What to Expect

Beginning Wednesday and lasting through at least Saturday, afternoon temperatures across the Foothills will climb into the upper 90s, with several locations capable of reaching 100 to 102 degrees. A few spots across the Piedmont could briefly reach 103 or 104 degrees.

Combined with the humidity, heat index values will frequently climb between 103 and 107 degrees, especially during the afternoon hours. A Heat Advisory is already in effect for much of the Foothills and western Piedmont on Wednesday, and additional advisories are likely through the Independence Day weekend.

One factor we continue to watch is how much the atmosphere mixes during the afternoon. If drier air mixes down, heat index values may stay a little lower. However, current observations suggest humidity will likely remain high enough to produce dangerous “feels like” temperatures.

Heat Safety Will Be Critical

This is the type of heat that can become dangerous quickly.

If you’re planning to attend Fourth of July events, work outside, or spend time on the lake:

• Drink plenty of water before you become thirsty.
• Take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (2 PM to 6 PM).
• Never leave children or pets inside vehicles.
• Check on elderly family members and neighbors who may not have adequate cooling.

Heat-related illnesses can develop much faster than many people realize.

Storm Chances Stay Mainly in the Mountains

Despite the strong ridge, isolated afternoon thunderstorms will still develop each day, primarily across the North Carolina mountains and foothills.

Any storm that forms will have plenty of instability to work with, meaning a few storms could quickly become severe with damaging wind gusts and hail. Most of these storms should remain west of the NW Piedmont, although an isolated storm could develop just about anywhere during the late afternoon or evening. Coverage will remain spotty, so many communities will stay dry.

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Relief Is Finally On The Horizon

By late Sunday and especially early next week, the upper ridge responsible for the intense heat begins shifting offshore.

That will allow temperatures to ease back closer to normal for early July, with highs returning to the lower 90s. Daily afternoon showers and thunderstorms will also become more widespread as a more typical summertime weather pattern returns. While a few storms could still become strong with gusty winds, the widespread dangerous heat should gradually come to an end.

Foothills Weather Network Bottom Line

The next four days will bring the hottest weather we’ve seen this summer. While we’re no longer expecting a truly historic heat wave, this will still be a prolonged period of dangerous heat that deserves your attention. If you have outdoor plans for the Fourth of July holiday, plan ahead, stay hydrated, and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

We’ll continue to monitor both the heat headlines and any isolated severe thunderstorms that develop each afternoon and keep you updated here on the Foothills Weather Network.