ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — People in the Asheville area are sweltering under a brutal heat wave this week — with little relief in sight.

The prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and humidity is expected to continue through midweek across much of the western Carolinas, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Heat Advisory for Tuesday and Wednesday across all areas except the mountains of Western North Carolina and northeast Georgia.

Forecasters warn that heat index values — a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is factored in — could soar between 100 and 108 degrees east of the North Carolina mountains. Overnight temperatures are also forecast to remain well above normal, offering little relief from the oppressive conditions.

High temperatures Tuesday are expected to climb into the upper 80s and lower 90s across mountain valleys, with areas farther east potentially reaching 100 degrees. That’s roughly 10 to 13 degrees above average for late June.

The heat is being driven by a strong upper ridge dominating the eastern United States. Forecasters expect that ridge to begin breaking down after Wednesday, allowing for a return of scattered showers and thunderstorms each day through the weekend. In the meantime, isolated afternoon storms may develop across the mountains.

Local officials in Buncombe County issued a public safety alert Monday, urging residents to take precautions.

“Even moderate heat can be dangerous if you’re working or playing outside,” the alert read.

Authorities recommend staying hydrated, avoiding sugary drinks, taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. Residents are also reminded to check on children, pets and older adults — and never leave them inside a parked car.

Duke Energy on Monday urged customers in North Carolina and South Carolina to reduce electricity usage as soaring temperatures strained the region’s power grid.

The request came amid efforts to maintain grid stability and prevent potential isolated outages.

“We deeply appreciate our customers’ cooperation, patience and understanding as we work to help ensure the stability and reliability of the system,” Ben Harrison, Duke Energy’s vice president of grid operations, said in a news release.

Duke Energy offered several tips to help conserve energy during peak hours:

  • Set thermostats to the highest comfortable setting.
  • Avoid using large appliances such as ovens, washers, dryers and dishwashers.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights, electronics and plug-in devices.
  • Grill outdoors to minimize indoor heat from cooking.
  • Use ceiling fans and close blinds to help keep spaces cool.

The company also recommends more long-term strategies for energy efficiency, such as sealing air leaks, regularly changing air filters and using smart thermostats to manage indoor temperatures more effectively.

For other tips on preventing heat-related illness or signing up for heat alerts, click here.