It has been another hotter than normal summer across eastern North Carolina.  Temperatures averaged about 4° above normal in June and nearly 3° above normal the first 28 days of July.  Hot weather is not uncommon across our region but it has been intense this year.  We've seen more sunny days and less rainfall and that has intensified the heat at times.  Above normal temperatures are likely to continue into August although we'll see a break in this heat wave by Sunday and Monday as a cool front brings more clouds and showers.  Drought conditions remain unchanged as much of the area is in a severe drought.  The showers late in the weekend may bring at least some relief.