Heat Index Near 105° Possible This Weekend Across Rowan, Davie, and Davidson Counties

After dealing with showers and thunderstorms today, we're about to experience two very different weather stories over the next several days.

First comes a brief taste of comfortable weather. Then, summer turns the thermostat all the way up.

Enjoy Wednesday While You Can

Behind today's cold front, a noticeably drier air mass will settle across the western Piedmont.

Wednesday is shaping up to be one of the nicest days we've seen in weeks. High temperatures will top out in the mid-80s across Rowan, Davie, and Davidson Counties with much lower humidity. Morning temperatures will start in the upper 50s to lower 60s, making it feel more like late spring than late June.

If you've been waiting for a good day to spend time outside, Wednesday is likely your best opportunity this week.

The pleasant weather continues into Thursday morning before temperatures begin climbing once again.

The Heat Begins Building Thursday

By Thursday, high pressure begins strengthening across the Southeast.

Temperatures will return to around 91 degrees Thursday afternoon, but humidity levels should remain manageable. While it will feel warmer than Wednesday, Thursday still looks like a fairly comfortable summer day.

The bigger story arrives as we head into Friday and the weekend.

Mid-90s Return Friday

Temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-90s Friday afternoon across the area.

Forecast highs currently include:

• Rowan County: 95°
• Davie County: 94°
• Davidson County: 95°

While dew points may remain somewhat mixed out during the afternoon, heat index values will begin approaching the upper 90s to near 100 degrees.

This will mark the beginning of a much hotter stretch of weather.

Weekend Heat Could Become Dangerous

The strongest heat of the season so far may arrive this weekend and continue into early next week.

Current forecast guidance shows temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 90s Saturday and Sunday, with some locations potentially approaching 100 degrees.

Even more concerning will be the combination of heat and humidity.

Current projections suggest heat index values could climb into the 100 to 105 degree range, especially during the afternoon hours.

The National Weather Service is already highlighting increasing probabilities of Major HeatRisk across North Carolina by the end of the weekend.

Major HeatRisk means heat could begin affecting anyone without adequate cooling or hydration, especially those spending extended periods outdoors.

Could Heat Advisories Be Needed?

It's still a little early to know with certainty, but Heat Advisories may become necessary if forecast trends continue.

Whether advisories are issued will depend on:

• Actual afternoon temperatures
• Humidity levels
• Overnight cooling
• Duration of the heat event

I'll be watching forecast updates closely through the week.

Heat Safety Reminders

If you have outdoor plans this weekend, now is the time to prepare.

Remember:

Drink plenty of water before you become thirsty

Take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade

Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day

Never leave children or pets in vehicles

Check on elderly family members, neighbors, and those without adequate cooling

Make sure outdoor pets have access to fresh water and shade

My Forecast Takeaway

The weather story this week can be summed up in three words:

Enjoy Wednesday's break.

The comfortable weather arriving behind today's cold front won't last long. Temperatures will steadily climb Thursday and Friday before potentially reaching dangerous levels this weekend and early next week.

I'll continue monitoring the latest forecast trends and will provide updates if heat advisories or other heat-related products become necessary.

• Steve Monday
  Chief Forecaster
  Rowan County Weather