Charlotte area on track to set Fourth of July heat record, forecasters say

Charlotte’s days-long heat wave is on track to set a record high for the Fourth of July holiday, according to the National Weather Service.

The current July 4 record is 99 degrees, set in 1993.

If all goes as expected, Charlotte will hit 100 degrees on Saturday, but it will feel more like 105 due to the humidity, forecasters say.

Climate data shows July is consistently one of the hottest months of the year for the region, with 29 of 31 days having record highs of 100 degrees and higher.

And just in case you’re wondering, the hottest July day on record is 104 degrees, on July 1 of 2012, Weather.gov reports.

The heat is expected to be dangerous through the weekend, with highs of 100 degrees Friday and Saturday, and the upper 90s on Sunday, the NWS says.

Lows at night will be in the upper 70s, which means “little to no overnight relief affects,” forecasters say.

Heat advisories and warnings have not been issued, but the three-day holiday weekend means millions of people are facing an elevated risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, experts say.

“Those with outdoor plans, including holiday and recreation, should prepare for several days of elevated heat risk,” NWS forecasters say.

“Stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.”