The Triangle may soon get relief from the heat. When to expect cooler temps
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- High temperatures in the Triangle will gradually decrease starting June 27.
- Afternoon thunderstorms and cloudier skies are expected throughout the weekend.
- Heat-related illness is still a risk, even with slightly cooler temperatures.
After days of record-high temperatures, Triangle residents can expect to see some relief from the brutal heat.
But the break will be subtle, meteorologist Phil Badgett from the National Weather Service’s Forecast Office in Raleigh told The News & Observer over the phone.
Here’s when cooler temperatures will arrive.
When will the weather cool off in the Triangle?
The high temperature for Thursday, June 26 is predicted to be around 97. But the heat index is expected to be between 105 and 109. A heat advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. for central North Carolina.
That’s just slightly lower than yesterday’s head index, which topped around 110, Badgett said.
Starting Friday, June 27 and continuing throughout the weekend, temperatures are expected to gradually drop, as the high pressure system begins to weaken. The high temperature June 27 is predicted to be around 95, with a heat index of around 105.
On Saturday, June 28, the high temperature drops again, to 92 or 93, Badgett said, with a heat index of 102.
The coolest day is expected to be Sunday, June 29, with a high temperature of 90 degrees and a heat index around 100.
Afternoons this weekend should be cloudier and cooler than earlier in the week. But the humidity will be about the same.
Rain chances for the Triangle
Rain may fall across parts of the Triangle this weekend.
There’s about a 30%-40% chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon hours Friday through Sunday, Badgett said, which could help lower temperatures.
The next best chance of storms and showers with more coverage are Tuesday and Wednesday, July 1-2, according to the NWS Raleigh office’s weekly weather briefing. Parts of central North Carolina could receive up to a quarter inch of rain through early next week.
Watch for heat-related illnesses
With high temperatures and high heat indices, people in the Triangle are still at risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
To avoid these illnesses, follow this guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- Limit outdoor activity during the extreme heat
- Use fans only if indoor temperatures are below 90 degrees
- Stay hydrated, and avoid drinks high in sugar, alcohol or caffeine
- Seek air-conditioned spaces
- Check on elderly or isolated people, and pets
This story was originally published June 26, 2025 at 11:53 AM with the headline "The Triangle may soon get relief from the heat. When to expect cooler temps."
