Dangerous heat dome coming to SC Lowcountry soon. Here’s how hot & if it’ll last through July 4th
A heat dome is developing that could bring dangerous temperatures to the Lowcountry through the Fourth of July.
The NWS warns of a major heat threat for the Lowcountry and much of the Southeast this weekend and into July. And below-normal rainfall may exacerbate the problem. Here’s what you need to know about the heat dome:
What’s causing the heat dome?
It’s part of what meteorologists call a ring of fire weather pattern. A high pressure system sits over Southeast and Midwest, while severe weather develops around the edges. The heat dome develops under the high pressure system, where the weather is stable.
While the heat dome persists, the Lowcountry won’t see much relief from high temperatures. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts a 40 to 50% chance of below-normal rainfall in the Lowcountry for the next six to 10 days.
What’s the forecast?
The National Weather Service places the Lowcountry under a major risk for heat impacts over the weekend into Monday. Major risk means anyone without cooling or hydration is at risk of heat illness.
Weekend temperatures could reach as high as 97 degrees on Hilton Head Island and 98 degrees in Bluffton, Beaufort and Port Royal, according to the NWS forecast. The highest temperatures will be felt Sunday. Temperatures could exceed daily records in some areas and heat advisories may be issued, according to the NWS.
The heat index for the weekend could be much higher than the temperature. The heat index factors in the relative humidity, and according to NWS, humidity will be high. Heat index values of 107 to 112 degrees are possible in the Lowcountry, and 106 degrees is forecast by the NWS for Friday.
Heat Index values above 103 degrees are classified as dangerous by the NWS. Exposure is likely to cause heat cramps and exhaustion, and heat stroke is possible with longer exposure.
The NWS forecasts temperatures in the low to middle 90s through next Wednesday. Forecasts beyond Thursday are not yet available. The NWS has placed the Lowcountry under a high risk for extreme temperatures through July 8.
AccuWeather forecasts a high on the Fourth of July of 93 degrees on Hilton Head Island and Bluffton and 95 degrees in Beaufort and Port Royal. Humidity may lead to dangerous heat index values.
How to stay safe
The NWS recommends you stay hydrated and limit time outside. Heat-related illness is more likely with longer exposure. The young, elderly, pregnant and those with chronic medical conditions are most susceptible to heat-related illness. Don’t leave pets, children or disabled people in cars unattended.
The NWS provides a two-day heat index forecast here. The NWS may issue a heat advisory with additional information.