Phoenix and surrounding areas are facing an intense heatwave, with dangerously high temperatures expected through Tuesday. The extreme heat will be followed by the possibility of monsoon storms midweek, bringing some relief, but also new challenges.
Areas Affected by the Extreme Heat
The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued an Extreme Heat Warning from Sunday, June 29 to Tuesday, July 1, with highs in Phoenix and surrounding cities reaching up to 115°F.
In areas like Glendale, Mesa, Chandler, and Buckeye, overnight lows may not dip below 90°F, adding to the extreme heat. The hottest conditions are expected to occur on Monday, making it one of the hottest stretches of the year.
Maricopa County is offering free transportation to cooling centers, with free rides available daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. via Arizona 211. Residents are strongly urged to take advantage of these cooling centers, especially if they don’t have access to air conditioning.
What to Expect and Safety Measures
The extreme heat will bring significant risks, especially for vulnerable populations. During the heatwave, residents should take the following precautions:
Stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. when temperatures are at their peak.
Drink water frequently to stay hydrated and avoid caffeine or alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. If you must go outside, take breaks in the shade and drink plenty of water.
Use air conditioning to stay cool. Fans alone are not enough to protect against extreme heat, especially during overnight lows that stay above 90°F.
Check on vulnerable individuals such as elderly people, children, pets, and outdoor workers, who are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and dehydration.
Monsoon Storms on the Horizon
While the heatwave will last through Tuesday, a monsoonal shift is expected by Wednesday, bringing the possibility of storms to the Phoenix area. As moisture from Mexico moves in, higher elevations could experience gusty winds and scattered thunderstorms.
The monsoon weather will provide some relief from the extreme heat, but also brings the potential for sudden storms, which could cause localized flooding and dangerous driving conditions.
