The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for central Arizona, beginning Monday morning and extending through 8 p.m. Tuesday.
The affected counties were La Paz, Yuma, Maricopa, Gila, and Pinal, where temperatures were expected to soar, peaking at a blistering 116 degrees in some parts of Yuma.
Afternoon highs were to range between 107 and 114 degrees , while morning lows would only reach the mid-90s.
At sunrise Monday, the temperature at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was a warm 88 degrees, 4 degrees above normal, according to the weather service.
For longtime Arizona residents, waking up to 90-degree mornings may be manageable, but the heat can be stifling for those less acclimated. Regardless of each one's heat tolerance, it's crucial to heed the warning and take appropriate precautions.
The " moderate " level of the warning implies the heightened risks for young children, seniors over 65, and anyone sensitive to extreme heat, particularly those without effective cooling or adequate hydration.
The weather service stresses that everyone should be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take steps to mitigate the dangers of extreme heat.
Maricopa County has set up cooling or respite centers and hydration stations to assist those without access to cool indoor environments. To locate a center or request transportation, dial 2-1-1.
What are the dangers of heat-related illness?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outlines the progression of heat-related illnesses , which can become severe or even deadly if left unattended.
The initial stage is marked by excessive thirst. In Arizona's desert climate, staying hydrated is paramount. Residents should aim to drink at least two liters of water daily.
The Arizona Department of Health Services also advises consuming sports drinks during exercise or work in the heat. Outdoor workers must take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to hydrate and replenish energies.
As heat-related illness progresses, muscle cramps may occur, characterized by intense sweating and muscle pain or spasms. At this stage, it's vital to cease physical activity, seek a cool environment, and hydrate with water or a sports drink.
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The next is a more severe stage of a heat-related illness called heat exhaustion. The symptoms include heavy sweating, cold, pale skin, fast or weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, weakness, dizziness, headache, and fainting or passing out.
Loosening clothing, applying cool, wet cloths to the body, or taking a cool bath can alleviate symptoms, but medical attention should be sought if they persist or worsen.
Heat stroke or sunstroke is the most serious stage of heat-related illness. It is considered a medical emergency that warrants calling 911 immediately.
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Throbbing headache
- Decreased alertness or unconsciousness
- High body temperature as high as 105 °F
- Red, hot, and dry skin
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Seizures
The CDC recommends the following steps if heat stroke is suspected:
- Call 911 immediately
- Move the person to a cooler environment
- Help lower their temperature with cool cloths or a bath
- Do not give them anything to drink
- Position them in front of a fan or air conditioner
- Keep the person lying down
What to expect for the rest of the week
While there was a chance of isolated mountain storms, the deserts, including the Valley, were expected to remain largely dry.
A 50% chance of showers or thunderstorms was predicted for Phoenix midweek.
By Friday, drier air and warmer temperatures will return, with highs forecasted to settle in the 106- to 108-degree range through the weekend.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Brace for a scorching start to the week: Everything to know about heat warnings in Arizona
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