Hold on to your hats, Charlotte! The weather is about to throw you a curveball, and you’ll want to stay ahead of it. The Queen City is bracing for a heatwave that will make you think summer’s already here. But just when you think you’ve got a handle on it, thunderstorms will sweep in, sending temperatures crashing.
A Scorcher to Start the Week
Today, April 3, was definitely one of those “warm but not quite summer” days. The temperature hit 81°F, and while that might sound great for an afternoon stroll, the humidity made it feel a little stickier than usual. The day started with a nice breeze, but by afternoon, it felt like the heat was settling in for the long haul. The occasional showers didn’t do much to cool things down, either.
Friday and Saturday: The Heat Is On
But here’s where it gets real. On Friday and Saturday, Charlotte will see highs creeping toward 90°F (32°C), and if that sounds like summer, it’s because it pretty much is. These temps could break records that go back decades, with Friday’s high flirting with the 1999 record of 91°F. It’s about to get hot, and with it, the potential for heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion is no joke. If you’ve got outdoor plans, make sure to hydrate, wear light clothing, and try to stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.
For those hoping for a cool breeze to help you through the heat, it’s going to be a bit of a challenge. The humidity is expected to make things feel even warmer than the thermometer reads. So, if you’re planning on being outside, keep a bottle of water with you at all times!
Sunday: The Calm Before the Storm
But wait, the heat won’t last forever. On Sunday, Charlotte will experience a dramatic shift. After a couple of days of scorching temperatures, expect the skies to get cloudy and the temperatures to drop. The real kicker? Thunderstorms will roll in, potentially bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and the kind of stormy weather that can make you want to stay inside with a warm drink. If you’ve got outdoor plans, be prepared for a quick change in the forecast.
Temperatures will drop significantly, going from the 80s on Saturday to around 67°F (19°C) by Monday. So, while you might start your day in the heat, be ready for a cool breeze and some rain by the end of the day.
What You Need to Know: Stay Safe and Prepared
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Heat Safety: The key here is hydration. Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid the sun during peak hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). If you’re going to be outside for long periods of time, take breaks in the shade or a cool place.
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Storm Safety: On Sunday, when the storms arrive, make sure your outdoor furniture is secure—those gusty winds could turn your patio into a wind tunnel. And be mindful of flash flooding, especially if you’re out on the roads. Lightning is also a risk, so find shelter if a storm rolls in.
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Stay Informed: The weather can turn on a dime, especially in Charlotte. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out, and keep an eye on any severe weather warnings.
A Quick Recap: Charlotte’s Wild Week Ahead
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
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Thursday, April 3: Cloudy and warm, with highs reaching 81°F (27°C). A few showers are possible, but nothing too drastic. Low of 65°F (18°C).
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Friday, April 4: A breezy morning gives way to a hot afternoon, with temperatures climbing to around 86°F (30°C). High pollen counts, so allergy sufferers, take your meds! Low of 65°F (18°C).
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Saturday, April 5: Another hot day with highs hitting 86°F (30°C). Definitely feels like summer, so be prepared to sweat! Low of 66°F (19°C).
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Sunday, April 6: After a few scorching days, the weather will shift—cloudy skies, cooler temps, and the arrival of thunderstorms. High of 79°F (26°C), low of 64°F (18°C).
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Monday, April 7: Cooler, with more clouds and the chance of afternoon showers. High of 67°F (19°C) and a low of 50°F (10°C).
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Tuesday, April 8: Sunny but crisp, with highs only reaching 59°F (15°C) and lows dipping to 35°F (2°C). You might need a jacket in the morning.
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Wednesday, April 9: Mostly sunny, with highs around 57°F (14°C) and lows in the 40s (4°C). A perfect day to get outside and enjoy the crisp air!
