Heat has been building across eastern North Carolina for the past couple  of weeks.  There is little relief in sight except for an occasional thunderstorm.  So far the month of June has averaged about 6° above the long-term average.  We may see a near record month for high temperatures if the trend continues.  Another problem for much of the area has been the lack of showers and thunderstorms.  Most locations have been running well below normal for rainfall this month.  There will be some scattered showers and thunderstorms through Thursday, with drier conditions expected for Friday and the weekend.  Temperatures over the weekend should reach the lower 90s.  Summer is already here.