Soaked soil keeps heat somewhat in check

WRAL Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel said the lingering effects of weekend rain served to keep temperatures in check. "After a good rain like the one we had Saturday, it's very difficult to get that hot.

"When it rains that much and soaks the ground, a lot of sun's energy goes into evaporating water from the soil as opposed to heating the ground," Fishel said, noting that some parts of the Triangle saw four inches of rain Saturday morning. 

Sunny skies, temperatures in the 90s and muggy nights dominate the forecast for the early part of the week. 

By week's end, more pleasant weather is on tap. "We may finally break the vise of the heat for awhile," Fishel said.  

"We could have a couple of days with sub-90-degree highs and significantly less humidity by Thursday, Friday and Saturday."