Near-record highs expected as heatwave grips Central NC

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- First Alert: Dangerous heat is expected through the weekend, with better chances for scattered storms this weekend. Smoke from Canadian wildfires may reach the area later this week and weekend. This may lead to hazy skies and potential air quality issues later this week and weekend.

Our fourth heat wave is now underway as a strong ridge of high pressure continues to build over the region. Very warm conditions are expected this evening, but thankfully it won't be overly humid.

Expect near-record high temperatures around 100 Thursday and Friday, with feels-like temps of 100 to 110 degrees. Anyone with outdoor work or plans should take precautions.

The ridge begins to weaken this weekend, though the heat wave is expected to continue through at least Saturday. The overall trend in temperature guidance beyond Saturday has been warmer.

As the ridge weakens, it will allow upper-level energy to move through the region, bringing an increased chance for thunderstorms this weekend into early next week. Severe potential could be possible given shear and instability. We'll monitor.

Tropics:
For the North Atlantic...Caribbean Sea and the Gulf:
Formation chance through 7 days: 20%

Have a great night!
Cruz Medina