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Heat sent dozens to Triangle-area emergency departments over July 4th weekend
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Heat sent dozens to Triangle-area emergency departments over July 4th weekend

Posted: 7/6/2026, 3:48:29 PM

Local emergency departments saw dozens of heat-related patients over the Fourth of July weekend.

UNC Health's emergency departments in Raleigh, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill and Hillsborough saw about 50 heat-related patients, a spokesperson told WRAL News, and UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill saw about 10 fireworks-related injuries.

Wake County EMS is urging people to take extra caution as the heat continues. Both Monday and Tuesday are WRAL Weather Alert Days with highs forecast in the mid-to-upper 90s.

That means precautions are still needed this week, especially if you've spent the past few days outdoors. 

Tips to stay safe during dangerously hot temperatures

Wake EMS recommends limiting your time outside between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. If you do have to be out during that time, stay in the shade. 

To prevent a trip to the emergency room, Wake EMS says notice the signs and take action immediately. 

"When you start to experience any kind of dizziness, muscle cramps, excessive sweating, or actual loss of sweating, those are medical emergencies," said Candice Carter, special operations commander for Wake EMS. "So seek some shelter, get in some shade, get inside."

Wake EMS suggests putting cool, damp cloths on the back of your neck or armpits to help cool off quickly. If that doesn't help, call 911 immediately. 

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke:

Heat exhaustion

  • Heavy sweating
    • Wakeness
      • Skin cold, pale and clammy
        • Pulse thready
          • Normal temperature possible
            • Fainting and vomiting

              Get the victim out of the sun. Lay them down and loosen their clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move the victim to air conditioning. Give the victim sips of water but stop if the victim feels nauseous. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.

              Heat stroke or sun stroke

              • High body temperature (106 degrees or higher)
                • Hot, dry skin
                  • Rapid, strong pulse
                    • Possible unconsciousness

                      Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Summon emergency medical assistance or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal.