Raleigh, North Carolina – Raleigh is facing a hot and stormy weekend as thunderstorms and extreme heat are set to combine on Sunday, July 20th. With temperatures reaching 96°F and heat index values pushing up to 106°F, the city is in for one of the hottest and most storm-prone weekends of the summer.
Residents should prepare for hazardous travel conditions and potential health risks, especially on major routes like I-40 and I-440.
Thunderstorms and Dangerous Heat Ahead
According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms will begin to develop after 2 p.m. on Sunday. While the storms will be brief, they could bring heavy downpours and gusty winds that may disrupt outdoor plans and slow down traffic.
Drivers are advised to avoid non-essential travel during the peak storm hours, and outdoor enthusiasts should stay hydrated, seek shade, and limit strenuous activities due to the extreme heat.
Sunday night will bring only a slight chance of showers, but the main concern remains the heat. Utility crews and emergency managers are on alert for possible power outages or health emergencies due to the high temperatures.
It’s important to stay weather-aware and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and others from the heat.
Looking Ahead: More Heat and Storms
Monday will bring mostly sunny skies with a high near 93°F, but more thunderstorms are expected to develop in the afternoon. The oppressive heat and humidity will continue throughout the workweek, with temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to mid-90s.
Though the humidity will ease a bit by Tuesday, more scattered storms could roll in by Monday night and Tuesday.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC (July 20th – July 25th)
Sunday (7/20): High near 96°F, slight chance of afternoon and evening storms. Heat index up to 106°F.
Monday: Mostly sunny with afternoon thunderstorms likely. High near 93°F.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 88°F. Drier, less humid.
Wednesday: Sunny, high near 88°F.
Thursday: Sunny, high near 94°F.
Friday: Sunny, high near 96°F.
With the combination of extreme heat and thunderstorms, Raleigh residents should remain alert and take precautions throughout the weekend and into the workweek. Make sure to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and stay informed with local weather updates.
