Current NCHSAA handbook link · last source review

North Carolina WBGT rules for high school sports.

North Carolina uses a five-band WBGT chart and a scientifically approved device, with hourly readings beginning 30 minutes before practice.

What coaches need to know

Below 80°F WBGT: unlimited activity with a 5-minute water/rest break every 30 minutes.
80.0–84.9°F: normal practice with close monitoring and a 5-minute break every 25 minutes.
85.0–87.9°F: reduce intensity for new or unconditioned athletes, add breaks every 20 minutes, and have cold-water immersion on site.
88.0–89.9°F: constant supervision, remove pads and equipment, add breaks every 15 minutes, and have cold-water immersion on site.
90°F and above: suspend all practices; competitions require gameday-administrator water breaks.

WBGT Index and Athletic Activity Chart

NCHSAA's current health-and-safety page links this handbook chart. A scientifically approved WBGT device should be used, with readings every hour beginning 30 minutes before practice.

Condition	What the coach does
WBGT up to 79.9°	Unlimited activity with basic precautions Use primary precautions for new or unconditioned athletes and extreme exertion. Provide a 5-minute water and rest break every 30 minutes.
WBGT 80°–84.9°	Normal practice with closer monitoring Closely monitor new or unconditioned athletes and all athletes during extreme exertion. Provide a 5-minute water and rest break every 25 minutes.
WBGT 85°–87.9°	Reduce intensity for new or unconditioned athletes Reduce intensity and modify clothing for new or unconditioned athletes. Give well-conditioned athletes more frequent rest and hydration and monitor for heat-illness symptoms. Provide a 5-minute water and rest break every 20 minutes. Have a cold- or ice-water immersion pool on site.
WBGT 88°–89.9°	Remove equipment and constantly supervise athletes Keep every athlete under constant observation and supervision. Remove pads and equipment. Provide a 5-minute water and rest break every 15 minutes. Have a cold- or ice-water immersion pool on site.
WBGT 90° and above	Suspend all practices Suspend all practices. Competitions may continue only with mandatory water breaks directed by the gameday administrator.

Source reviewed 2026-07-30. An on-site WBGT reading is required for the official call.

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Use the current governing document. Local schools, districts, leagues, activities, and medical staff may apply additional or stricter requirements.

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