Tuesday, June 24 brought intense, oppressive heat across Central North Carolina, with the highest “feels-like” temperatures in the entire United States. A strong dome of high pressure parked over the Eastern U.S. continues to fuel this dangerous heatwave, intensifying humidity and lifting the heat index to extreme levels.
By 2:30 p.m. EDT, the RDU International Airport near Raleigh reported a staggering heat index of 111°F (43.8°C). This figure, which accounts for both temperature and humidity, underscores the extreme discomfort experienced across the region. With dew points remaining high, the air feels especially muggy and stifling, making it difficult for the body to cool down through sweat evaporation.
The most severe conditions were recorded in Edenton, where the heat index soared to 127°F (52.8°C)—a value rarely seen outside of desert climates. Other hotspots included Halifax at 117°F (47.2°C), and Goldsboro, Piney Island, and Tarboro all at 115°F (46.1°C).
Even as the sun begins to set, temperatures remain stubbornly high. Forecast models suggest it could still feel like 100°F (37.7°C) as late as 10:00 p.m. EDT, particularly in urbanized zones where concrete and asphalt trap daytime heat.
Here are the hottest locations recorded in North Carolina on Tuesday, June 24:
Raleigh – 110°F (43.3°C)
Rocky Mount – 110°F (43.3°C)
Oak Island – 110°F (43.3°C)
Jacksonville – 111°F (43.8°C)
Sampson County – 114°F (45.5°C)
Goldsboro – 115°F (46.1°C)
Piney Island – 115°F (46.1°C)
Tarboro – 115°F (46.1°C)
Halifax – 117°F (47.2°C)
Edenton – 127°F (52.8°C)
This ongoing heat episode is expected to continue through the week as the high-pressure ridge remains nearly stationary over the Southeast.
