Phoenix, AZ – Arizona is baking under another brutal August heat wave, with the National Weather Service warning of record-breaking temperatures continuing through Friday.
Residents across south-central Arizona and the lower deserts remain under an Excessive Heat Warning, with daily highs ranging from 113°F to 117°F and the potential to reach 118°F in Phoenix—a mark that would tie the city’s all-time hottest August temperature.
Historic Heat Bears Down on the Valley
The forecast for the week is nothing short of scorching:
- Tuesday: High near 114°F
- Wednesday: High near 116°F, likely breaking the 2023 record of 114°F
- Thursday: High near 117°F, surpassing the 2012 record of 112°F
- Friday: Temperatures remain above 113°F
If Phoenix reaches 118°F, it would match the city’s hottest August temperature ever recorded, a record shared by 2011, 2015, 2020, and 2023.
“This is not just hot—it’s dangerously hot,” NWS meteorologists cautioned. “We urge all residents to limit outdoor activity and check on vulnerable neighbors.”
Sweltering Nights Offer No Relief
Adding to the discomfort, overnight lows are expected to remain near or above 90°F, offering little recovery from the oppressive heat during the nighttime hours. This combination of high daytime temperatures and warm nights creates a serious risk for heat-related illnesses, especially for outdoor workers, children, seniors, and people without access to air conditioning.
The average high for this time of year in Phoenix is around 106°F, meaning the region is enduring conditions nearly 10 to 12 degrees hotter than normal.
No Rain in Sight for Phoenix
There’s no relief from rainfall expected for the Valley in the coming days. Monsoonal activity will remain limited to higher-elevation areas in the eastern parts of the state, leaving the Phoenix metro area dry and exposed to the full force of the heat dome.
The intense high-pressure ridge responsible for this extreme heat is expected to weaken slightly over the weekend, bringing a minor cooldown. But even then, temperatures will stay well above normal, with highs ranging from 109°F to 110°F between Saturday and Monday.
Read Also: Tropical Storm Dexter Forms in Atlantic but Won’t Threaten U.S. Coast, Forecasters Say
Safety First: Heat Precautions You Should Take
With dangerous temperatures sticking around, officials urge everyone to:
- Avoid outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
- Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Use air conditioning: Cooling centers are open for those without A/C
- Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles
- Check on neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals
How are you coping with this week’s extreme heat in Arizona? Let us know in the comments and share your cooling tips. For more weather alerts and safety updates, visit newyorkdailygazette.com.
