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.
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Two days into our 4th heat wave of 2026, and today will be miserable.
Expect feel-like temperatures to climb into the 102 to 106 range by Friday afternoon and evening.
A Heat Advisory kicks in from Noon until 9:00 p.m. tonight.
You should take plenty of breaks if you're spending time outdoors.
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Central North Carolina remains under a First Alert Day as dangerous heat continues to grip the region.
While hot summer temperatures are common, meteorologists say this stretch of heat has been especially intense because of high humidity and the lack of overnight relief. Even after sunset, temperatures have remained elevated, making it harder for the body to recover from prolonged exposure to the heat.
Dr. Ashley Ward with the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment and Sustainability, talked with ABC11 about the effects of extreme heat and the risk of heat-related illnesses. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can develop days after a heat wave has ended.
Watch our interview below:
Health experts recommend staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day and taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
Residents are also encouraged to check on older adults, young children and others who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for areas south of the Triangle as dangerous heat continues across central North Carolina. High temperatures combined with humidity could push heat index values into the triple digits.
Temperatures have been dangerously high across Central North Carolina the last week and remaining in the 90s this week.
Two counties in the area have decided to extend their cooling center days. This comes as the ABC11 Forecast Team says temperatures could hit the 100s on Friday.
Wake County said Monday their temporary cooling stations will remain open through at least Saturday, July 11.
Wake County Libraries
Remember that closing times for libraries vary, so visitors should check online or call their local library for site-specific information.
Regional Centers and Health and Human Services Centers
Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
Sites that are not normally open to the public, such as EMS stations, fire stations and county fleet maintenance buildings, will not be available as cooling stations.
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Cumberland County is opening cooling center locations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
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.
All eight county libraries
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 on libraries to see specific locations
Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) - Main Lobby: 505 Franklin St., Fayetteville
FAST is open during regular operating hours.
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.
