Weather

Hot, humid conditions persist Tuesday

The North Carolina Department of Environmental and Natural Resources has issued a "Code Orange" alert warning that those who are sensitive to pollutants, including those with heart or lung disease and the very young or the very old, should avoid extended periods outside.

Posted Updated
Heat Index, DMA
RALEIGH, N.C. — The stuffy, stagnant air mass over central North Carolina was enough Monday to generate an air quality warning that extends until 9 p.m. Tuesday.
The North Carolina Department of Environmental and Natural Resources has issued a “Code Orange” alert warning that those who are sensitive to pollutants, including those with heart or lung disease and the very young or the very old, should avoid extended periods outside.

Monday's stifling heat was just the warm-up for a week when the Triangle could see high temperatures in the high 90s every day and equally oppressive humidity.

"When the high pressure settles over us, we're not getting those strong breezes and the pollutants we put into the air just stay there," WRAL meteorologist Nate Johnson said.

Tuesday was expected to be in the upper 90s with the heat index reaching around 100 degrees. Skies were expected to be mostly sunny, but there was a slight chance of an afternoon or evening thunderstorm.

In addition to air quality worries, those who must spend time outdoors are advised to take precautions to avoid overheating. Those include wearing light, loose clothing, drinking plenty of water and taking breaks and finding shade, if possible.

Women's Open will be steamy

Golfers and fans at the women's U.S. Open Championship in Pinehurst this week will need plenty of sunscreen and should carry an umbrella each day. While the chance for an afternoon thunderstorm never rises above about 30 percent through the tournament, the umbrella could serve as a welcome source of shade.

Temperatures each day are forecast for the high 90s with overnight lows staying above 70 degrees. Humidity and a dew point near 70 degrees will keep it sticky and steamy on the course.

The greatest chance for rain, but still only a 50-50 shot, comes Friday morning before tee time. Any showers would be light and move out before the heat of the day.

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.