NWS Extends Heat Wave Alert: Brace for Sizzling Temperatures Through Wednesday

Parts of Southern Arizona will remain under an excessive heat warning through Wednesday, with temperatures in the Tucson metro area and other regions expected to reach up to 112 degrees during this heat wave. Meanwhile, the deserts between Phoenix and Yuma could experience scorching highs of 119 degrees.

An excessive heat warning will be in effect through Wednesday night for Tucson and much of Southern Arizona. In Phoenix and Western Arizona, the warning extends through Friday night, continuing a previous notice that began last week, covering Friday through Monday for Tucson.

Highs above 100 degrees are anticipated in the Tucson area, including the Upper Santa Cruz River Valley. The Phoenix metro area and Arizona’s central deserts stretching to Yuma are also bracing for extreme temperatures, according to National Weather Service (NWS) officials.

“The main weather story for Southeast Arizona the next several days reminds me of the time I ordered some hot wings… hot with a side of hot sauce. Not a pleasant experience to say the least,” one NWS forecaster remarked over the weekend.

Forecasters stated on Monday, “Excessive heat continues through mid-week with high temperatures expected to approach record levels in some locations. The combination of substantially drier air and a stable atmosphere will reduce thunderstorm chances today. Returning moisture and a more favorable weather pattern will result in thunderstorm chances returning Tuesday and increasing through the week.”

They added, “It’s almost a broken record at this point, but (excessive heat) remains significantly impactful for Southeast Arizona not only today but well into this week.”

In central Arizona and the western deserts, including the Phoenix area and Yuma, temperatures are predicted to soar between 109 and 119 degrees, the NWS reported.

“Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses,” forecasters cautioned. “Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

Additionally, they advised, “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, avoid the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.”

“Everyone should take precautions this weekend if you are planning on being outside during the day,” officials emphasized. They also issued a critical reminder: “Look before you lock! It will be hot outside and dangerously hot inside a car.” They