Extreme Heat Warning Issued As Tucson Nears Hottest Days Of The Year

TUCSON, AZ — Tucson is about to bake through its hottest stretch of the year, with temperatures expected to climb into the low 110s and little overnight relief as a dangerous heat wave settles over Southern Arizona.

The worst of the heat is expected Friday and Saturday, when highs in the Tucson metro could reach 110 to 113 degrees. Even after sunset, temperatures will only fall into the low 80s, increasing the risk of heat-related illness after several days of relentless heat.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Tucson and much of Southern Arizona from 10 a.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Sunday.

Forecasters say the combination of scorching daytime temperatures and unusually warm nights will create major to extreme HeatRisk across the region.

The warning also includes Marana, Nogales, Douglas, Sierra Vista, Safford, Willcox, Ajo and surrounding communities, with highs ranging from 101 to 106 degrees in Santa Cruz and Cochise counties and 107 to 112 degrees across much of the rest of the warning area.

The National Weather Service says heat is Arizona's deadliest weather hazard and is urging residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, stay hydrated and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can turn deadly within minutes.

Anyone who must spend time outdoors should wear lightweight clothing, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should be moved to a cooler place immediately, and 911 should be called right away.

The Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Sunday evening, with only limited relief expected before temperatures begin easing early next week.