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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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.
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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."
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
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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