RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- An intense heat wave will continue through the Fourth of July weekend. Highs will be around 100 degrees, with feels-like temperatures as high as 110 degrees. 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. One homeowner who experienced a hours-long power outage in Durham said it was miserable without his air conditioning. Another said it feels like the heat has intensified in North Carolina.
"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.
Basically, right now, Central NC is a hot, muggy, sweltering, poor-air-quality mess. And it's expected to last into early next week.
With somewhat stagnant conditions, smoke from Saturday night's July 4th fireworks could linger into Sunday, something to keep in mind, especially for those who are more sensitive to reduced air quality.
The record-breaking heat has led to organizers tweaking some July 4th plans for the safety of performers, staff, and attendees.
First Alert Day as the dangerous heat wave continues through the Fourth of July weekend and into Monday. An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m.
Highs on Saturday will be around 100 degrees, with feels-like temps as high as 115 degrees.
Record-high temperature for a July 4th currently stands at 101.
The Town of Knightdale sent out a reminder about the time change in its Fourth on First event due to the heat.
"Reminder due to the anticipated heat and out of an abundance of caution for our attendees, vendors, performers, volunteers, and staff, Fourth on First will now take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
While we know this is a change from our original schedule, the safety of our community remains our top priority. By moving the event to the morning, we can provide a more comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the celebration."
July 4, 2026 is expected to be the hottest on record for Central North Carolina.
And with that in mind, the city of Raleigh is doing what it can for those who brave the heat Saturday to enjoy the festivities and the 9:30 p.m. fireworks show in Dix Park.
Here's what the city of Raleigh says they're doing to keep people safe for July 4 celebration and fireworks show in Dix Park.
The city will have free water refill stations in the park, along with complementary cans of sparkling water.
Attendees are allowed to bring small umbrellas for shade as well as soft coolers with their own cold drinks if it's easier.
There will be mist stations all across the park.
There will be medical crews around the park checking in on people to make sure they're okay.
ABC11 will have crews on hand and will bring you the latest updates from the Dix Park and other celebrations in the Triange.
Several cooling centers have been activated across the Triangle and Central North Carolina.
Wake County will open cooling stations starting Wednesday, July 1, and running through at least Monday, July 6.
Wake County Public Libraries
Wednesday - Friday and Sunday - Monday
Closing times for libraries vary.
Please note that libraries will be closed July 4.
Regional Centers and Health and Human Services Centers
Wednesday - Thursday and Monday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
Please note that these locations are closed July 3.
Main Library
137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Hours: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5
Southern Branch Library
203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC 27510
Hours: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5
Cumberland County Department of Public Health - First Floor Lobby
1235 Ramsey St., Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Friday, July 3 for the Independence Day holiday.
Cumberland County Department of Social Services - Auxiliary Lobby
1225 Ramsey St., Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Friday, July 3 for the Independence Day holiday.
Cumberland County Public Libraries
All eight library locations across the County.
All library locations will close at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 2 and remain closed through Monday, July 6 for the Independence Day holiday.
Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) - Main Lobby
505 Franklin St., Fayetteville Closed Saturday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday. Check hours at their website.
Fayetteville Cares Day Resource Center
128 South King St., Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Friday, July 3 for the Independence Day holiday.
Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation - Recreation Center Lobbies
Recreation Centers hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, July 3.
