Heat index tops 100 degrees across central NC

The heat wave that set in over the weekend pushed temperatures to the triple digits in central and eastern North Carolina by midday Monday.

Posted 3:01 a.m. Jun 14, 2015 — Updated 8:12 p.m. Jun 15, 2015

RALEIGH, N.C. — The heat wave that set in over the weekend pushed temperatures to the triple digits in central and eastern North Carolina by midday Monday.

"This is heat like we have not seen for a couple of years," said WRAL meteorologist Mike Moss. Monday was the first time Raleigh-Durham International Airport registered a 100-degree day since July of 2012.

A heat advisory is in effect for much of central and eastern North Carolina Monday through 7 p.m. and again on Tuesday through the hottest part of the day.

The combination of temperatures around 100 and high humidity could push the heat index up to 107 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

"You'll want to take your normal, hot-weather precautions: light, loose clothing, lots of breaks and lots of water to drink today," Moss said.

In Fayetteville, Lindsey Wolf played Monday morning with her 18-month-old daughter at the splash pad at JS Spivey Recreation Center.

While they enjoyed the water, Wolf was cautious about the beating sun.

"I want to make sure I have plenty of sunscreen on her. We haven’t been out too much in the sun, and it’s going to be really, really hot today," Wolf said. "I think the heat index is going to be 105 or something like that, so I don’t want her to burn."

Those who work in the heat prepared well before the sun was up to tolerate the high temperatures. Construction worker Mickey Clevidence said his crew would balance work with rest so no one gets overheated.

"In the morning, first thing, you start out drinking more water than you need," he said. "Remain in the shade as much as possible. Try to rotate with guys if you have enough guys. You know: one guy in the heat, one guy in the shade."

By midday, temperatures are forecast to be in the mid-90s. They will reach 100 degrees around 3 or 4 o'clock, Moss said.

The average normal temperature in Raleigh for June 15 is 87 degrees. With a forecast high of 100 degrees for Monday and Tuesday, records could fall. Monday's high-water mark is 97 degrees, set in 1981. For Tuesday, the record high of 98 degrees was set that same summer.

"We have a good chance of breaking a few records this week," WRAL meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth said.

While the forecast calls for temperatures to abate a bit Wednesday and Thursday, the excessive heat and humidity and the threat it brings will stick around all week.

"We'll be in record territory again on Wednesday and Thursday," Moss said.

Residents are advised to stay indoors in the air conditioning or in the shade as much as possible and take precautions against the high heat and humidity when venturing outside. Confine outdoor work or play to early morning or after dusk.

"We just want to enjoy the splash pad before it gets too hot this afternoon," Wolf said.

Stay hydrated and check on your pets and elderly friends. Experts say water hydrates better than beverages with caffeine, such as soda or coffee, and they advise drinking before thirst hits.

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