Extreme Heat Warning Hits Phoenix Metro As Temperatures Top 110

PHOENIX, AZ — The Phoenix area is heading into another stretch of dangerous summer heat, with temperatures expected to climb above 110 degrees in parts of the Valley as an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Friday evening.

The National Weather Service issued the warning from 10 a.m. Monday through 8 p.m. Friday for much of the Phoenix metro area, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, Goodyear, Avondale, Queen Creek and Paradise Valley.

Afternoon temperatures are expected to reach 109 to 112 degrees under Major HeatRisk conditions. Forecasters expect temperatures to remain several degrees above normal through at least the middle of the week.

Phoenix, Yuma and El Centro each reached 110 degrees Sunday, and forecasters have high confidence that the pattern will continue. Highs are expected to range from 109 to 113 degrees through at least Tuesday.

The extreme heat is being driven by a strong area of high pressure moving into the region, pushing atmospheric conditions well above what is typical for mid-August, according to the National Weather Service's Monday morning forecast discussion.

For Valley residents hoping for monsoon storms to bring some relief, the early-week forecast isn't promising. Storm chances are expected to remain mostly confined to Arizona's higher terrain, with a few storms possible over southern Gila County Monday and near the Mogollon Rim Tuesday. Neither is expected to bring significant rain or cooling to the Phoenix area.

There are some signs that could change by midweek. Updated forecast models are showing slightly better moisture arriving Wednesday and Thursday, and the number of models indicating a possibility of rain reaching the lower deserts has more than doubled.

Forecasters are also watching for increasing wind shear Thursday, which could support stronger storms.

It's still too early to know whether those storms will reach the Valley or how much rain they could bring.

Even if temperatures ease slightly later in the week, forecasters expect it to remain hot enough for the warning to continue. Some parts of Arizona could see the warning lifted early if storm activity increases significantly toward the end of the week.

Health officials are urging Valley residents to take precautions during the warning period. Extreme heat can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, which can progress to potentially life-threatening heat stroke without prompt treatment.

The National Weather Service recommends moving strenuous outdoor activities to the early morning or evening when possible, wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and drinking plenty of water. Outdoor workers should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Anyone showing signs of heat illness should be moved to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned location immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency; call 911.

Maricopa County residents can call 2-1-1 or visit the county's heat resources to find information about nearby cooling centers, transportation assistance and water.

With temperatures expected to remain near or above 110 degrees, Valley residents should plan ahead, limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day and check on friends, family members and neighbors who may be especially vulnerable to the heat.