Raleigh, North Carolina – On Sunday, July 20th, Raleigh will experience a combination of intense heat and thunderstorms, making it one of the hottest and stormiest weekends of the summer. With temperatures reaching near 96°F and the heat index soaring to 106°F, residents should be prepared for health and travel hazards, particularly along major routes like I-40 and I-440.
Heat and Thunderstorm Risks in Raleigh
According to the National Weather Service, the chance for showers and thunderstorms will increase after 2 p.m. on Sunday. While these storms will likely be brief, they may bring heavy rain and gusty winds, potentially disrupting outdoor plans and slowing traffic.
Drivers on key highways like I-40 should avoid unnecessary travel during the peak storm hours, as conditions may become dangerous with reduced visibility and slick roads.
For anyone spending time outdoors, it’s crucial to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, seek shade, and avoid strenuous activities to reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Emergency services and utility crews are on alert for potential heat-related outages and health emergencies.
Looking Ahead: Continued Heat and Storms
While Sunday night will see only a slight risk of showers, the oppressive heat will continue. Monday will bring mostly sunny skies, but expect more thunderstorms in the afternoon as temperatures remain in the low 90s, with high humidity. This pattern will persist throughout the workweek, with highs in the upper 80s to mid-90s and scattered storms possible, especially on Monday night and Tuesday.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC (July 20th – 25th)
- Sunday, July 20: High 96°F, slight chance of afternoon/evening storms. Heat index up to 106°F.
- Monday, July 21: Mostly sunny, high 93°F. Afternoon thunderstorms likely.
- Tuesday, July 22: Mostly sunny, high 88°F. Drier, less humid.
- Wednesday, July 23: Sunny, high 88°F.
- Thursday, July 24: Sunny, high 94°F.
- Friday, July 25: Sunny, high near 96°F.
Stay Prepared
Warnings and advisories remain in effect through Sunday evening, and additional updates are possible as conditions evolve. Keep an eye on weather alerts and plan accordingly to stay safe in the heat and thunderstorms.
