Triangle misses record temperature by 4 degrees
The Triangle was four degrees away from breaking a 45-year-old temperature record Saturday. Highs reached 96 degrees at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, just shy of the record 99-degree day set on June 20, 1964.
Late afternoon and evening thunderstorms are possible, particularly in northeastern counties.
"With all the heat and instability, the potential is there for one or two strong or severe storms," WRAL Meteorologist Mike Maze said.
Potential dangers include strong downburst winds and lightning and lesser chances of large hail and isolated tornadoes.
Local governments are helping out those vulnerable to heat, including children and the elderly:
- Cool for Wake offers fans and donated air conditioners to low-income individuals. For information on how to qualify, call 919-212-7000. Donations of fans and air conditions can be dropped off the Community Resources office, Wake County Human Services Swinburne Building, 220 Swinburne St. in Raleigh. To make a monetary donation, call 919-212-7083.
- Durham County has opened its air-conditioned senior centers and Parks and Recreation facilities to the public. Free ice water is also available.
- Cumberland County has opened up its air-conditioned recreation centers and public libraries.
Although it won't really cool things down, the cold front will bring some relief Sunday – a high in the low 90s and less humidity.
"As we head into early next week, we come back to near normal temperatures with mid to upper 80s for highs and a mix of sun and clouds each day," WRAL Meteorologist Mike Moss said.
Normally, North Carolina sees highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 60s this time of year.
