Central North Carolina is currently experiencing the most intense heat in the United States, as a large dome of high pressure blankets the entire eastern half of the country. As of Tuesday, June 24, at 2:30 p.m. local time, the heat index at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) hit a staggering 111°F (43.8°C), making it the hottest “feels-like” temperature nationwide.
Extreme heat worsens across Central North Carolina
By the afternoon, the combination of scorching temperatures and elevated dew points produced an exceptionally humid and oppressive environment. The heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity, soared past 110°F (43.3°C) in multiple North Carolina cities. Notably, Halifax registered 117°F (47.2°C) and Edenton reached an extraordinary 127°F (52.8°C).
Heat index may remain dangerously high late into the night
Forecast models indicate that “feels-like” temperatures could remain around 100°F (37.7°C) as late as 10 p.m., suggesting no significant relief after sunset. Tuesday is expected to be the peak of this heatwave, though oppressive conditions are likely to persist through the rest of the week.
Most impacted cities on Tuesday, June 24
Among the hardest-hit locations in North Carolina:
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)
Extreme heat warnings and heat advisories remain in effect across multiple counties, as the Southern U.S. faces one of the most dangerous heat events of the season.
