Metro Phoenix could beat more heat records this week. Here's what to expect and how to stay safe

Laura Daniella Sepulveda, Arizona Republic
·3 min read
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Arizona is forecast to be hit by the strongest heat wave of 2023 so far with Phoenix area temperatures threatening to beat record highs this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

While Arizonans should prepare for the soaring temperatures, people in metro Phoenix should be especially careful as temperatures will likely climb near 120 degrees by Saturday, said meteorologist Matthew Hirsch with the National Weather Service in Phoenix.

Sunday marked the ninth consecutive day that hit 110 degrees or above recorded at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. According to Hirsch, temperatures could stay at or above that mark for the rest of the week.

"We're really concerned about the heat wave we're experiencing and how prolonged this event is going to be," Hirsch said. "We're urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves."

In 2020, Phoenix broke records for the most days with temperatures 100 degrees or hotter (145 days) and the most days that hit 110 or hotter (53 days). The state record for consecutive temperatures of 110 degrees or above is 22 days, set in El Centro in 2016.

Another non-soon? Drier, hotter than normal conditions predicted for Arizona's monsoon

Climate data from the federal government shows the Southwest has grown significantly hotter over the past decade. The region has endured the most pronounced warming in the country during that period, an increase that federal meteorologists said clearly reflects the influence of global warming.

In Phoenix and surrounding areas, developed areas have grown significantly hotter than the surrounding desert through the urban “heat-island” effect, in which exposed asphalt, concrete and roofs soak up heat from the sun and push temperatures higher.

The heat can also be deadly. In 2022, a record 425 people died of heat-related causes in Maricopa County. A decade ago, the county reported just 75 heat deaths. Researchers have said the growing number of lives lost underlines an urgent need to scale up efforts to protect those who are most vulnerable.

Phoenix has little to no chance of seeing the first monsoon rain of the year any time soon, with rain chances topping on Tuesday at 10%. After that, chances will stay below 5% for the rest of this week and will likely stay low through the following one, Hirsh said.

Hot weather tips

The Arizona Department of Health Services provided tips to prevent heat-related illness:

  • Drink water: It is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of water per day if people are staying inside all day. Those who spend time outdoors should drink 1 to 2 liters per hour they are outside.

  • Dress for the heat: Wear light-weight and light-colored clothing. Sunscreen should always be applied to exposed skin and it is recommended to wear a hat or use an umbrella when outdoors.

  • Eat small meals and eat more often: Officials recommend avoiding foods high in protein that increase metabolic heat.

  • Monitor those at risk: Check on friends, family or others for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

  • Slow down and avoid strenuous activity: It is recommended to only do strenuous activity during the coolest hours of the day, between 4 and 7 a.m.

  • Stay indoors.

  • Take breaks when engaged in physical activity: Take a break in a cool place when doing activity outside on a hot day.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Metro Phoenix could beat more heat records this week: What to know