Extreme Heat Warning Hits Tucson Area As Gusty Storms Move In

TUCSON, AZ — Southeast Arizona is in for a hot and stormy week, with an Extreme Heat Warning in effect from 10 a.m. Monday through 8 p.m. Friday and thunderstorms expected to bring strong wind gusts across parts of the region.

The warning covers Western Pima County, the Tohono O'odham Nation, the Tucson metro area, south-central and southeast Pinal County, and the Upper Gila River Valley. It includes Tucson, Marana, Oracle, Green Valley, Vail, Ajo, Sells, Mammoth, Safford and Clifton, according to the National Weather Service in Tucson.

Highs are expected to reach 103 to 110 degrees, with overnight temperatures only falling to 79 to 85 degrees. The region is expected to see Major HeatRisk, meaning the heat could have a significant impact on people spending time outdoors and those more vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Temperatures will run about 5 to 7 degrees above normal across Southeast Arizona as a strong area of high pressure builds over the Southwest. Areas west and northwest of Tucson could be even hotter, with temperatures running 6 to 10 degrees above normal and a few degrees warmer than Sunday.

And while storms are in the forecast Monday, they may bring more wind than rain.

Thunderstorms are expected across Southeast Arizona, including the Tucson metro area, but dry air will limit rainfall. The bigger concern is strong outflow winds that can race ahead of storms, even in places that don't get much rain.

Storms moving into Graham and Cochise counties between about 2 and 5 p.m. Monday could produce wind gusts of 45 to 50 mph. Central and eastern Pima County and Santa Cruz County could see gusts of up to 45 mph during the late afternoon and early evening.

The Gila River and San Simon valleys could see some of the strongest winds. Aviation forecasters are also warning of gusty, erratic winds of 40 to 45 knots near thunderstorms in southern Graham and northern Cochise counties.

Storm activity should ease somewhat Tuesday as high pressure settles over central Arizona. But another round of monsoon moisture could arrive soon after.

Deeper moisture is expected to push north into the lower deserts of southwest Arizona Tuesday night into Wednesday, which could help thunderstorms become more widespread across Southeast Arizona later in the week.

Forecasters expect storm coverage to increase again Wednesday and Thursday, with Friday and Saturday also looking active in the current forecast. As always during monsoon season, conditions can change quickly.

The heat will remain a concern even when storms move in. The National Weather Service recommends moving strenuous outdoor activities to the early morning or evening when possible, wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and drinking plenty of water.

If you're working outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned space. Check on neighbors, family members and others who may have a harder time dealing with the heat.

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

And when storms are nearby, don't assume you're in the clear just because it's not raining. Strong outflow winds can arrive suddenly, kicking up dust and making travel hazardous. Secure loose outdoor items and check the forecast before heading out.