By admin 
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — A heat advisory will be in effect across much of central North Carolina on Thursday as dangerous heat and humidity are expected to push heat index values as high as 108 degrees.
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The National Weather Service in Raleigh issued the advisory for 20 counties, including Wake, Durham, Orange, Johnston, Cumberland, Harnett, Wayne, Wilson and surrounding areas.
The advisory is slated to be in effect from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday.
Forecasters expect afternoon temperatures to climb into the mid- to upper 90s. Combined with high humidity, it will feel between 104 and 108 degrees in many locations.
National Weather Service officials warned that the extreme heat could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses for those spending extended periods outdoors.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check on relatives and neighbors,” the National Weather Service said in its advisory.
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Officials also recommend wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limiting strenuous outdoor activities to the early morning or evening hours. Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should seek immediate relief and medical attention if necessary.
The heat advisory comes as central North Carolina faces a combination of summer heat, tropical moisture and an approaching cold front over the next several days.
While most areas are expected to remain dry through much of Thursday, isolated showers and thunderstorms could develop late in the afternoon and evening, particularly across the Triangle and areas farther north.
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