How long will Charlotte be stuck in a heat dome? When will relief soon be on the way?

Near record-setting temperatures have blanketed much of the country this summer, including the Charlotte area.

Friday is expected to maintain that sweltering pattern.

According to the National Weather Service, the current forecast high is expected to reach 98 degrees with a heat index of 105 degrees.

Charlotte MEDIC has responded to 133 heat-related calls since July 1, an increase of 40% compared to 2022, WCCB reported.

The heat is so concerning that Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has pushed back area high school football games by more than an hour to limit exposure.

A heat advisory might be issued through northeast Georgia, Piedmont North Carolina, western North Carolina, and upstate South Carolina, the NWS said.

So, is this the last heat surge of the late summer? How long will this current wave last?

The National Weather Service predicts that temperatures in Charlotte will drop below 90 degrees by early next week. Tuesday is expected to have a high of 84 degrees, and temperatures are predicted to continue falling throughout the week. Thursday is expected to be the coolest day of the week, with a high of 80 degrees.

While relief is on the way, the area will still be affected by stretches of warmer temperatures for what’s left of the summer until early fall, said Jake Wimberly, a meteorologist with NWS.

In September, the heat will taper off somewhat, with temperatures not being as oppressive, though October -- like many Octobers -- will feature “hot periods,” he said.

“It’s still summer, so there will be several more weeks of possible heat and warm stretches each week,” said Wimberly. “By Sunday, it is likely temperatures will be cooler and be more typical for this time of the year.”

How to stay safe in extreme heat

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, here’s how to stay safe in extreme heat.

• Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. Air conditioning is the number one way to protect yourself against heat-related illness and death, according to the CDC.
• If your home is not air-conditioned, reduce your risk for heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities that are air-conditioned and using air conditioning in vehicles.
• Do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device
• Stay hydrated. Drink more water than usual
• Check on friends and neighbors
• Limit the use of the stove, oven, and other appliances that will make a home hotter.
• Never leave children or pets in cars.
• Limit outdoor activity, especially midday when the sun is hottest
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
• Monitor friends’ and loved ones’ conditions and have someone do the same for you.
• Seek medical care immediately if you or someone you know has symptoms of heat-related illness.