First Summer Heatwave Alert Kicks Off Saturday Morning

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for the upcoming weekend, marking the first such alert of the summer. Residents can expect sweltering conditions, especially on Father’s Day.

Maricopa County is advised to brace for “dangerously hot conditions,” with afternoon temperatures soaring to 114 degrees. This significant increase is confirmed by the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Tomorrow is anticipated to bring the region’s first 110-degree day, nearly six degrees above the seasonal norm. The extreme heat warning takes effect Saturday morning and will last until Monday night.

Meteorologist Mark O’Malley explained that a high-pressure system in eastern Arizona is contributing to the rising temperatures. “High pressure acts like a dome of warm air, and its movement can cause significant warming,” he stated, providing insight into the weather pattern.

While temperatures will be uncomfortably high, they are not expected to break historic records. The forecast for tomorrow predicts a high of 110 degrees, just shy of the 111-degree record. Sunday and Monday may reach 113 degrees, which is below record highs of 115 and 114 degrees, respectively.

By Tuesday, temperatures may cool slightly to 109 degrees, still above the average range of 102 to 104 degrees for this time of year.

In light of the extreme heat, NWS recommends that residents limit outdoor activities to prevent heat-related illnesses. They strongly advise rescheduling strenuous tasks to early morning or evening hours.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Residents should dress in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and stay hydrated.