The 90s are back in town for the weekend

After another cool morning during which local thermometers dipped into the mid-50s, Mecklenburg County will see highs at or just above 90º return this Friday afternoon. Humidity levels will also be on the increase, so prepare for some of the first sticky days of the summer of 2026.

Both Saturday and Sunday look to reach that level of heat, with the latter weekend day also having the potential for afternoon thunderstorms thanks to an approaching cold front. On Sunday the area is under a Marginal Risk - level 1 of 5 - for severe weather, which could mean damaging straight line winds from thunderstorm outflows. Unfortunately not much rain is expected over the next several days, adding to the drought concerns. 

Many will take advantage of this summer weather to enjoy outdoor activities. Keep in mind that it's always wise to keep an eye on the sky for changing conditions. Storms can build quickly, and even a run-of-the-mill summer thunderstorm produces lightning. That weather feature poses much more danger than many folks realize. 

This two panel graphic illustrates one commonly misunderstood feature of lightning: it can strike and injure people even when it's not raining at a location.

More information is available at this National Weather Service website. And remember, "When thunder roars, go indoors" means just that. Staying outdoors while thunder is audible is risky business.