ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Temperatures will continue to climb Monday across the Carolinas, with hot and humid conditions expected to intensify through the week, according to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg.

Highs Monday were forecast to reach the mid to upper 90s east of the mountains, with heat index values — a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is factored in — topping out in the upper 90s to low 100s. Although still below the threshold for a Heat Advisory, forecasters warned the heat would be more intense Tuesday.

Heat indices may reach advisory criteria, which starts at 105 degrees, in some areas east of the mountains, the weather service said in a statement.

Overnight conditions will offer little relief, with warm and muggy air making it difficult for residents without air conditioning to cool down. Officials urged people to stay safe by drinking plenty of water, wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat.

If you must work outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and watch for signs of heat-related illness, forecasters said. Always check on vulnerable populations and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.

The heat is expected to linger throughout the week as a high-pressure ridge strengthens over the eastern United States. Isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms remain possible through Tuesday, mainly in the mountains, with rain chances becoming more widespread by midweek and continuing into the weekend.

The forecast for the week, according to the National Weather Service:

  • Today: Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind.
  • Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Calm wind.
  • Tuesday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 93. Heat index values as high as 100. Calm wind.
  • Tuesday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.
  • Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind.
  • Wednesday night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.
  • Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.
  • Thursday night: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.
  • Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.
  • Friday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.