The Brief
Temperatures in the Valley are set to climb, with an extreme heat watch in effect from Wednesday through Friday as highs are expected to reach up to 113 degrees.
While a heat wave is on the way, the long-term forecast suggests a break from the heat, with above-average chances for rain and cooler, below-average temperatures in the coming weeks.
Extreme heat returns with the Valley on alert for temperatures exceeding 110 degrees.
Today
Sunday brought in a daytime high of around 104 degrees, which is one degree below average.
Tonight’s low will be at around 84 degrees under mostly clear skies.
Looking Ahead
Temperatures will gradually warm each day, with Wednesday through Friday being the hottest days under a strong ridge of high pressure.
Temperatures for Wednesday are looking to head toward 111 degrees with Thursday and Friday at around 113.
Overnight lows will also be warm with minimal relief from the heat as readings are only dropping into the 90s.
Extreme heat watches will be in effect for much of Maricopa County and southern Arizona for these days.
Rain Chances
Moisture this week will be confined to higher terrain, with only slight chances for the Valley.
The 8-to 14-day outlook indicates Arizona will be leaning above average for precipitation, including the Valley.
Temperatures during this timeframe are also leaning either average to below average.
You can always check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.
Scroll down this page for satellite and radar, day planner, records, current temperatures, 10-day forecast, forecast highs, and recent rainfall totals, plus live video feeds.
The following heat safety information was provided by the Scottsdale Fire Department.
What are Heat Emergencies?
Heat Cramps: Profuse sweating, fatigue, extreme thirst, muscle cramps
Heat Exhaustion: Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea/vomit, cool/moist skin
Heat Stroke: Elevated temp. +103degrees, confusion/irrational behavior, dry/hot skin, rapid shallow breathing, rapid weak pulse (shock), seizures, unconscious
What to do
Get person into shade or cool location
Cool person with cool, wet cloths (neck, groin, armpits, head) and fan body
Sip cool water if person is alert
For muscle cramps, massage muscles gently, but firmly until relaxed
*If symptoms worsen, call 911
What not to do
Do not give anything by mouth if person is vomiting, unable to swallow or unconscious
Do not underestimate the seriousness of a heat emergency
Prevention/Preparation for hike/exercise in heat
Know your limitations
Hydrate (begins day prior to hike/exercise, hour before hike, during and after)
Wear proper clothing, lightweight and light color, protect head, proper shoes
Always carry a cell phone and best to hike with company
Always tell someone where you are hiking and when to plan to return
Preventing heat exhaustion/heat stroke
The Arizona Department of Health Services stated the following precautions can be taken to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke:
Stay in air-conditioned buildings
Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (mid-day)
Check on at-risk friends, family, and neighbors at least twice a day
Drink water before, during, and after working or exercising outside
Check the UV Index
Check the heat risk map
Driving in extreme temperatures
The Arizona Department of Transportation’s tips for driving in extreme temperatures include:
Have sun protection: In addition to an umbrella, take sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat and wear loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.
Fuel up: Keep your tank at three-quarters full. Running out of gas, especially in a remote location, is dangerous in extreme heat.
Hydrate: Take a cooler to keep extra drinking water cold, and consider adding several frozen bottles of water to use for cooling off or to thaw and drink if needed. Make sure everyone, including pets, stays hydrated.
Get help: If your vehicle breaks down in extreme heat, call for assistance right away to reduce wait time, and run the AC. If the AC isn’t working, roll down all windows.
Wait safely: If the temperature inside your vehicle becomes too hot, everyone, including pets, should exit carefully and seek out or create a shaded area as far away from the travel lanes as possible. Be careful walking on the road surface, which can be hot enough to burn skin. Keep your shoes on and try to keep your pets’ paws off the pavement. If you are stopped along the highway, raise the front hood and turn on hazard lights. Please keep in mind that parking in tall brush can start a fire.
Check your vehicle: You can help avoid breakdowns and blowouts by making sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. Check your air conditioner and coolant levels, top off any vital engine fluids and make sure your battery is up to par. Check your tire pressure, as the combination of under inflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout.
MORE: https://azdot.gov/about/transportation-safety/severe-weather
Road Conditions
Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)
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