Excessive heat warnings issued across Arizona as dangerously hot conditions persist

Rey Covarrubias Jr., Arizona Republic
Updated ·3 min read

The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings for Maricopa, Pima and Coconino counties through 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Dangerously hot conditions were forecast across the state, with temperatures from 107 to 114 degrees in Pima County and 109 to 117 degrees in Maricopa County. Extremely hot temperatures were forecast to linger for most of the next week.

At the Grand Canyon, dangerously hot conditions were predicted below 4,000 feet, with daytime temperatures forecast from 106 degrees at Havasupai Gardens to 112 degrees at Phantom Ranch.

Temperatures of 105 to 110 degrees were predicted at Lake Powell near Page and Marble and Glen canyons.

Hot conditions were expected to persist as a high pressure system settles over central Arizona.

Extreme heat will continue to be the Arizona main weather story for the next week, according to the National Weather Service of Phoenix.

Sunday's high temperature was forecast to reach 113 degrees in Phoenix, with a predicted overnight low of 88 degrees.

Monday through Wednesday, temperatures were forecast to reach highs of 114 degrees, with no precipitation or cloud coverage in sight, according to the Weather Service.

Night lows were projected to range in the 80s and 90s for much of the lower deserts.

Most people would be at risk for severe heat-related illnesses without effective cooling or adequate hydration, especially with prolonged outdoor exposure, the Weather Service warned. Overexposure to hot weather can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion to develop and, without intervention, can lead to heat stroke, the weather service said.

For the latest watches and warnings, see our weather alert page.

Climate data from the federal government shows the Southwest has grown significantly hotter during 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.

In the know: What is the difference between heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration?

Hot weather tips

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

  • Drink water: Drink at least 2 liters of water per day if 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 lightweight and light-colored clothing. Sunscreen should always be applied to exposed skin. Wear a hat or use an umbrella when outdoors.

  • Eat small meals and eat more often: Avoid 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: Do strenuous activity only during the coolest hours of the day, between 4 and 7 a.m.

  • Stay indoors.

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

This article was generated by The Arizona Republic and USA TODAY Network using data released by the National Weather Service. It was edited by a staff member.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Excessive heat warnings issued across Arizona