9+ things to know to survive the summer heat in North Carolina
Less than a week into summer, the Triangle is experiencing record high temperatures.
Temperatures hit 100 degrees on Monday, June 23, a record for the Triangle according to the National Weather Service (NWS). NWS forecasts for Raleigh predict a high of 102 degrees Tuesday, surpassing the record of 99 degrees set on June 24, 2010.
These high temperatures (and humidity) can increase the risk for heat-related illnesses, causing heat cramps, heat rash, nausea, fainting or, in severe cases, heat stroke, according to the CDC. Here are ways to stay cooler than the under side of a pillow amid the heat.
1. Are you having heat stroke? UNC emergency doctor explains how to tell and what to do
We spoke to UNC emergency physician Dr. Ryan Lamb for this one. “If someone is having a heat-related illness and they are confused, it is a dire emergency,” Dr. Lamb said. “It leads to multi-organ failure.” | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Kimberly Cataudella Tutuska
2. Heat-related illness is common for those with chronic conditions. Learn from my mistakes.
A personal anecdote for The News & Observer’s D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia about what and what not to do when you have a chronic illness and are suffering from heat exhaustion. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Danielle Battaglia
3. NC experts recommend 9 things to make your AC unit work better (+ 3 things to avoid)
Tips on how to set your thermostat to save money, if you should use a dehumidifier, how to shade your AC unit and when to change your air filter — and what not to do. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Kimberly Cataudella Tutuska
4. What’s the best thermostat setting to stay cool in NC and save money this summer?
Duke Energy says says “each degree you raise your thermostat can help you save up to 5% in cooling costs.” And we have other tips for saving on energy costs. | Published June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
5. Is it too hot to walk my dog? How to keep your pets safe in the heat.
N.C. State professor Mariea Ross-Estrada gave tips on when people should walk their pets, which pets are most vulnerable to excessive heat and if your pet should wear sunscreen. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Anna Roman
6. How to tell if your dog has heat stroke, and how to save them
Ross-Estrada also pointed out signs, symptoms and treatments for dogs if they suffer a heat stroke. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Anna Roman
7. Experts discuss essential hydration tips for athletes during the North Carolina heat wave
Tips on if you should hydrate with water or a sports drink, how the playing surface absorbs heat and how to keep your child safe during summer workouts. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Shelby Swanson
8. How to survive this scorching NC summer, even if you don’t have air conditioning
Things you can do home to stay cool without an AC, where to find places to cool and what to do if you need to go outside. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted
9. Why your phone weather app probably won’t tell you if you’re stranded on a heat island
How researchers at Duke found areas around the Triangle that are hotter than their surroundings — especially in lower-income areas. | Updated June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Freya Gulamali
10. Duke Energy asks NC customers to limit power during heat wave. Here’s what to do
Too many customers using their AC units at once could lead to blackouts. Here are ways to conserve energy around the house during the summer. | Published June 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore
11. Can car glass crack in extreme heat? An auto expert explains how to prevent it
The glass on your windshield is prone to damage when temperatures change rapidly. Here are ways to keep your car cool and prevent cracks from worsening. | Published June 26, 2025 | Read Full Story by Twumasi Duah-Mensah
This story was originally published June 24, 2025 at 2:35 PM with the headline "9+ things to know to survive the summer heat in North Carolina."
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