Weather Permitting: Here's how to stay cool during Fayetteville's brutal heat this week
The heart of summer has arrived in the Fayetteville area well ahead of schedule, baking the region a three-day cauldron of heat and humidity.
A heat advisory has been posted for the region by the National Weather Service offices in Raleigh and Wilmington, with an excessive heat warning likely for Tuesday. Potentially dangerous heat and dew points in the mid-70s will create an early season sauna, with a heat index topping 110 degrees for Fayetteville on Tuesday and readings of 115 or higher along the coast.
The heat, part of a ridging pattern that is bleeding over the Appalachians into the Carolinas, is expected to peak on Tuesday, said NWS forecaster Phil Badgett. It''s a pattern that usually isn't seen in the region until late July or August.
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"This is a pattern that climatologically brings the hottest temperatures to North Carolina," he added. "A westerly flow off the mountains is forecast to aide the low-level heating."
While the Cape Fear region has already seen 100-degree weather this year (in early June), dew points at the time were still low. This week, moisture will be higher, in the low to mid-70s. The elevated dew point, combined with temperatures expected to reach 102 on Tuesday, creates a dangerous heat situation for any prolonged outdoor activity.
It's also a potentially dangerous situation for older residents. Heat has a tendency to take a cumulative toll on people, and those less able to recover quickly can succumb to its effects.
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Here's the expected weather breakdown for the next few days: Monday will be hot, with temperatures peaking in the upper 90s to 100 for Fayetteville. Dew points will be elevated as well, with an expected heat index of about 105 much of the afternoon. Isolated storms could develop, mainly along the Sea Breeze line south and east of I-95, but there's little in the way of relief expected.
There won't be much relief in the evening, either. Heat and humidity will keep much of the region in the upper 70s, with 80s possible until midnight.
Tuesday will see the heart of the heat arrive in the region. Temperatures in Fayetteville should top 90 before 10 a.m., with a heat index of triple digits before lunch time. Afternoon highs of 102-104 are likely for the region, and modeling projects a heat index of up to 114 for the city.
Temperatures at night could remain above 90 until 10 p.m. in Fayetteville, and never drop below 80.
Wednesday looks a bit less oppressive, though still hot. As the ridge begins to ease a bit, there's a chance of afternoon showers to hold highs in the upper 90s. The heat index will still likely be high enough to warrant advisories.
By Thursday, an approaching cold front should help break the sweltering pattern. Highs will ease back into the low 90s, with a heat index below triple digits. Shaower chances will increase for the area as well.
The weekend: The front should arrive into time to give the Cape Fear region some relief for the weekend. Temperatures Saturday and Sunday will top out at about 90, with dew points a much more manageable upper 50s.Traditional popcorn showers will dot the region as the front passes.
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A bit of history: If Fayetteville reaches a high of 102, it will be the hottest June day this early since 1943. It will also be the hottest June day in the last decade. The all-time hottest June day was 106, in 2012.
Tips to stay cool (best we can):
Take it easy. Heat dulls reaction time. If you have to be working outside, be aware of the effects heat can have on the body and mind.
Hydration is essential. Stop for frequent water breaks and listen to your body. If it says stop, then stop.
Forget the beer — grab a Slushie. Kids will appreciate this one. Avoid alcohol, but grab all the frozen drinks you can. Save the daquiri for the end of the day, when work is over.
Shade is essential. If you're outside, take frequent rest breaks in the shade. Wear a hat, loose-fitting clothing and feel free to soak a towel and wear it around your neck. If folks stare, it's better than having them dragging you off to the emergency room.
Since someone is going to ask ... yes, excessive heat can compound the effects of COVID-19. Anyone currently affected by the virus needs to be doubly alert for the weakening effects heat can have on the immune system. The same is true of any systemic illness.
Outdoor pets are at risk as well. Provide extra water and shade for any animals.If you're walking the family dog, remember that sidewalks and especially asphalt will be much hotter than grass and can burn sensitive paws.
Check on elderly neighbors. If you're out and about, carry an extra bottle of water. You might meet someone, or someone's pet, who needs it.
Got a weather question? Chick Jacobs can be reached at ncweatherhound@gmail.com or NCWeatherhound on Twitter.
This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: How to stay cool in the brutally hot weather in Fayetteville this week
