ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Oppressive heat and humidity are expected to build across Western North Carolina through the weekend and into next week, with dangerous heat index values likely from Sunday through midweek, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued warnings about the prolonged heat wave, which is defined as a period of abnormally hot and humid weather lasting more than two days. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms may develop in the North Carolina mountains, but rain chances remain isolated elsewhere.
Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States, often claiming more lives annually than hurricanes, floods or tornadoes. The Weather Service urged residents to stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces and remain hydrated. If air conditioning is unavailable, finding shade and minimizing outdoor activity are critical…