It's hot! When are heat advisories issued, and what do they mean?

Heat advisories and excessive heat warnings are blanketing the Midwest and parts of the Deep South.

Posted 3:30 p.m. Jul 28, 2021 — Updated 3:31 p.m. Jul 28, 2021

Peta Sheerwood

, WRAL meteorologist

RALEIGH, N.C. — Heat advisories and excessive heat warnings are blanketing the Midwest and parts of the Deep South.

A strong high pressure system stationed just to the west over the Plains will continue to drift eastward, sending us sizzling summer highs.

This high pressure system will deliver hot sinking air and increase hot conditions with winds streaming out of the south around its flow. Hot temperatures are expected to persist for many and continue into the weekend.

While central North Carolina is not currently under a heat advisory, temperatures are still expected to soar into the low to mid 90s over the next three days. Heat indices will climb about 100 over the next three days.

According to the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Raleigh, heat advisories are issued in our area when a heat index is between 105 degrees and 109 degrees for three hours or more. Those advisories are also issued for lower values between 100 degrees and 104 degrees lasting several consecutive days.

Regardless of whether an advisory is issued or not, the Triangle and surrounding areas will be dealing with some of the hottest stretch of temperatures and humidity of the year so far.

Take extra precautions, especially if you work or spend an extended period of time outside. Wear loose and lightweight clothing.

Take frequent breaks from the heat and stay hydrated.