Hot and dry weekend ahead but bigger heat Is coming later this week

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Summer is making itself comfortable early across central North Carolina.

Saturday brought plenty of sunshine and temperatures soaring well into the 90s across the region. The good news! This evening looks fantastic if you're heading outdoors.

Temperatures will gradually fall through the 80s and into the 60s overnight with low humidity and comfortable conditions.

Whether you're settling in to watch the Carolina Hurricanes right here on ABC11 or heading downtown to catch Khalid at Red Hat Amphitheater, the weather will cooperate.

Sunday turns even hotter. Afternoon highs will climb into the upper 90s, putting us within striking distance of the record high at RDU of 100 degrees. Humidity levels will be a little higher than today, but still low enough to keep heat index values close to the actual air temperature.

A back-door cold front arrives Monday, sliding into North Carolina and stalling just south of the Triangle. While most communities stay dry, a few isolated thunderstorms could develop during the afternoon and evening. High temperatures will still reach the mid-90s.
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The front delivers a brief break from the heat on Tuesday. Sunshine returns and temperatures should remain in the mid to upper 80s, making it the most comfortable day of the upcoming week.

Unfortunately, the cooler air won't last long.

By Wednesday, temperatures rebound into the 90s, and humidity begins creeping upward. By Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, highs will surge back into the middle and upper 90s while muggy air returns in full force.

That combination of heat and humidity could push heat index values into dangerous territory and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

For now, enjoy the relatively comfortable evenings and lower humidity while they last. A much more oppressive stretch of summery weather appears to be waiting in the wings.