With a La Niña climate pattern likely on the way and average temperatures trending upwards in recent years, North Carolina and the rest of the Southeast could be in for some sweltering heat waves this summer, forecasters say.
In fact, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there is a good chance temperatures across the state and the region will be higher than average all the way to the end of August 2025, which is as far out as the agency’s public forecast goes.
What’s the North Carolina forecast for summer 2024?
▪ NOAA’s seasonal outlook maps for June to August show North Carolina within a swath of the country where meteorologists say there is a 40% to 50% chance for higher-than-average temperatures. In the same period, NOAA says, there is also a 40% to 50% chance of above-average rainfall across the state.
▪ The Farmers’ Almanac, which makes specific long-range weather forecasts, says the first hot spell will come June 12-15, accompanied by high humidity and thunderstorms. The Almanac also says it will be hot from July 8-11, July 16-19, July 24-31.
The Almanac says it will be “oppressively hot” August 8-11 and hot again from August 20-23
A surfer heads into the water on the Outer Banks near Rodanthe in 2023. Summer 2024 will likely be another extra-hot one on North Carolina, forecasters say. Travis Long File photo
Globally, NOAA says, 2023 was the hottest year on record, and the 10 warmest years in the 174-year record have been the decade from 2014 to 2023.
North Carolina has a 40% to 50% chance of higher-than-average temperatures this summer, forecasters say. Globally, NOAA says 2024 is likely to be even hotter than 2023, the hottest year on record. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
▪ Wake County’s Cool for Wake program collects donations of cash and new or gently used fans and window air-conditioning units to help those who can’t afford to buy items to help them stay cool. The program runs from May to September and serves families that include the elderly or children.
▪ The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services runs Operation Fan Heat Relief from May 1 to Oct. 31. It helps people aged 60 and older, as well as adults with disabilities.
Martha Quillin writes about climate change and the environment. She has covered North Carolina news, culture, religion and the military since joining The News & Observer in 1987.
