Excessive Heat Issued as Unseasonably High Fall Temperatures Grip Arizona

The weather pattern has been characterized by dry air and mostly clear skies, which will remain entrenched well into next week.Photo byIvana CajinaonUnsplash

Phoenix, AZ – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for much of Arizona, as an unusually strong high-pressure system is set to bring extreme temperatures to the region through at least the weekend. Highs are expected to soar to 110 degrees Fahrenheit or higher across many lower desert areas, including Phoenix, which is forecasted to break several daily temperature records in the coming days.

According to the NWS update, the persistent high-pressure ridge, currently centered over New Mexico, is expected to shift westward, intensifying its grip on Arizona. This phenomenon will result in conditions more typical of mid-June rather than late September, with temperatures soaring around 15 degrees above normal. Specifically, forecasts predict highs between 110-114 degrees for Saturday, marking a stark contrast to seasonal averages.

The weather pattern has been characterized by dry air and mostly clear skies, which will remain entrenched well into next week. Although there was initial speculation about a possible disruption of the high-pressure system due to a weak low-pressure area moving into Southern California, recent models suggest this feature will weaken and offer little relief from the heat.

As temperatures continue to rise, officials advise residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the extreme heat. The current Excessive Heat Warning, set to expire on Sunday, is expected to be extended through early next week, as forecasts indicate that high temperatures may persist near 110 degrees for several days.