Live Updates: 4th heat wave of the year grips Central NC; cooling centers open

WTVD logo
Last updated: Monday, July 20, 2026 9:41PM GMT
Surviving the extreme heatwave in Central NC
GLP-1 medications work on receptors in both the brain and the digestive system, a medical expert says, which can affect a perception of thirst.
WTVD

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- An intense heat wave will continue through the Fourth of July weekend and into this week. Highs will be around 100 degrees, with feels-like temperatures as high as 110 degrees or higher. Daily record high temperatures may also be challenged or even broken.

The combination of intense sunshine and prolonged heat will create dangerous conditions for anyone spending extended periods outdoors. And as the temperatures soar outside, people across Central North Carolina do what they can to stay cool, especially when they have to head out.

A Durham homeowner said it feels like the heat has intensified in the state, "I grew up in North Carolina, but I don't remember waves being quite this intense."

To compound the misery, ABC11's Forecast Team says there will be little overnight relief, with temperatures only falling into the mid-70s throughout the heat wave, and the air quality is deteriorating.

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news and weather alerts

Jul 20, 2026, 9:41 PM GMT

Cool spots for heat relief in Fayetteville, Cumberland county

Cumberland County and Fayetteville leaders are offering some relief from the heat with expected triple-digit feels on Tuesday. The National Weather Service in Raleigh has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for the, with a forecast high heat index value of 105 F on Tuesday.

Cumberland County and the City of Fayetteville are designating multiple government buildings as cooling centers for anyone without access to air conditioning who need a cool, safe place to escape the heat.

Cooling centers will be open during normal business hours.

Locations

Cumberland County Department of Public Health - First Floor Lobby: 1235 Ramsey St., Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
*Masks are required in designated areas and immediately after COVID-19 exposure or infection. Those with health concerns or preexisting conditions are encouraged to wear a mask.

Cumberland County Department of Social Services - Auxiliary Lobby: 1225 Ramsey St., Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
*Masks or face coverings are encouraged for individuals with preexisting conditions.

Cumberland County Public Libraries: All eight library locations across the County.

  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m

.

  • Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Sunday (Select Locations): 2 - 6 p.m.

Click here for a full list of locations.

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) - Main Lobby: 505 Franklin St., Fayetteville
FAST is open during regular operating hours.
Check hours here.

Fayetteville Cares Day Resource Center: 128 South King St., Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation - Recreation Center Lobbies: Various locations throughout the County.

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news and weather alerts

WTVD logo
Jul 20, 2026, 12:15 AM GMT

Hot, humid Sunday ends with storms

Hot, and humid conditions across central North Carolina Sunday, with a Heat Advisory in effect for most of the area.

While afternoon temperatures were few degrees lower than Saturday, higher humidity levels will make it feel well over 100 for several hours.

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news and weather alerts

WTVD logo
Jul 18, 2026, 2:11 AM GMT

World Rugby Nations Cup teams navigate NC hot weather ahead of game

As temperatures continued to climb across the Triangle, players and organizers preparing for a World Rugby Nations Cup match in Cary spent Friday managing the heat ahead of the United States' matchup against Spain.

"Gotta hydrate. You got to be drinking electrolytes constantly because we're sweating like crazy," said USA Men's Rugby captain Jason Damm.

"Player safety is paramount in any contact sport," said Jim Anderson, general manager of U.S. event operations for World Rugby. "With heat in particular, we've got particular regulations about what point play gets suspended."

See full story here

WTVD logo
Jul 17, 2026, 7:59 PM GMT

Heat Advisory in effect in parts of the Triangle, Central NC

Heat Advisory in effect from Noon until 9:00 p.m. Friday.

Counties included right now:
Durham; Wake; Johnston; Wilson; Harnett; Wayne; Cumberland; Sampson; Warren; Halifax; Franklin; Nash; Edgecombe

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news and weather alerts