Heat Wave Peaks Today

The recent heat wave will peak Wednesday, with near-record highs in the upper 90s, meteorologist Keith Monday said. The record of 98 degrees for today, set in 1956, is in jeopardy.

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With the heat also comes high humidity. Monday said the heat index values will be near 100 degrees. Heat advisories have been issued southeast of Charlotte, where the heat index may top 105 degrees Wednesday afternoon.

Officials with the N.C. Division of Air Quality rated the air quality in the Charlotte area as Code Orange on Wednesday, which means those sensitive to air pollution should limit outdoor exertion in the afternoon. In addition to children and the elderly, other sensitive groups include those who work or exercise outside and people suffering from asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other respiratory ailments.

The main concern for pollution on Wednesday is ozone, which can reach high levels on hot, sunny days when the air is stagnant.

Storm chances increase on Thursday and Friday, Monday said. By Saturday and Sunday, temperatures are forecast to be down to near 90 degrees. Click here for the full five-day forecast.

For air quality ratings from the North Carolina Air Quality Forecast Center, click here.

For the latest UV forecast, click here.

Click here for safety information during extreme heat.