North Carolina Faces Persistent Heat and Mixed Drought Conditions in August 2026
North Carolina experienced one of its hottest Augusts on record, with a statewide average temperature of 78.6°F (26°C), ranking as the fourth-warmest since 1895 (Climate.ncsu.edu, 2026). Several cities, including New Bern, Raleigh, and Fayetteville, reported top-five warmest Augusts. Heat waves dominated mid-month, with Fayetteville recording 15 consecutive days of 90°F (32°C) or higher, peaking at 100°F (38°C) on multiple occasions. Rainfall was uneven, with Wilmington receiving 15.01 inches, marking its second-wettest August, while northern areas like Louisburg and Roanoke Rapids saw less than 1.5 inches, contributing to persistent drought conditions. Extreme Drought (D3) expanded in Warren and Halifax counties, while southern coastal areas saw improvements due to heavy rainfall.