An excessive heat warning for "dangerously hot conditions" was issued Wednesday for Maricopa County by the National Weather Service. But another heat warning continues through Tuesday evening.
The warning started at 1:54 a.m. and was scheduled to expire at 3 p.m. Wednesday, according to officials. The next warning, affecting portions of south-central and southwest Arizona including the Phoenix metro, lasts through 8 p.m. Tuesday, according to the weather service.
"An excessive heat warning means that a period of very hot temperatures, even by local standards, will occur," according to a weather service alert. "Actions should be taken to lessen the impact of the extreme heat."
For the latest watches and warnings, see The Republic's weather alert page.
Climate data from the federal government shows the Southwest has grown significantly hotter during the past decade. The region has endured the most pronounced warming in the country during that period, an increase that federal meteorologists said clearly reflects the influence of global warming.
In Phoenix and surrounding areas, developed areas have grown significantly hotter than the surrounding desert through the urban “heat-island” effect, in which exposed asphalt, concrete and roofs soak up heat from the sun and push temperatures higher.
Last month marked Phoenix's hottest June on record, breaking the all-time record by almost two degrees. The average temperature for the month was 97 degrees, compared with the previous record of 95.3 degrees in 2021.
These record-breaking temperatures are queuing heat warnings throughout the state before, during and after Independence Day weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Here's what to know about staying safe in the heat through the holiday.
Phoenix weather for Fourth of July could hit 115 degrees
Phoenix residents can expect temperatures almost 10 degrees hotter than normal for the upcoming weekend, said weather service meteorologist Isaac Smith.
An excessive heat warning was issued in Phoenix that extends from 10 a.m. Thursday until 8 p.m. Tuesday. According to Smith, the high temperature on July 4 could hit 115 degrees.
"Our normal high for this time of year is right around 107 degrees, so you're certainly looking at temperatures in some of these areas climbing upwards of eight to 10 degrees above normal."
The weather service advised staying hydrated, limiting time outside and wearing loosely fitted clothing during holiday festivities, especially celebrations outdoors.
Smith also encouraged caution when using fireworks and being aware of local fire and fireworks restrictions.
Dry vegetation can ignite easily, and the use of fireworks can increase the risk of starting wildfires.
The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management said it will have officials patrolling areas notorious for ignitions like Pinal County, Wittmann, along State Route 74, Interstate 17 corridor and around U.S. 60 near Apache Junction and Gold Canyon.
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in place on most state, federal and tribal land across Arizona, and the use of fireworks is illegal on federal lands year-round.
Tucson could see thunderstorms over holiday weekend
An excessive heat watch was issued in Tucson for Friday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., with an anticipated high around 110 degrees.
"It's going to be around five to seven degrees above our normal temperature. Right now, we're forecasting for highest 109 degrees in the Tucson metro area. That could be as high as 112 degrees in western Pima County," meteorologist Julia Tetrault said.
A chance for thunderstorms Friday and Saturday could bring the temperature down, Tetrault said, but the storms are anticipated to be smaller and more isolated.
For holiday hikers in Tucson, the weather service advised only hiking around sunrise or after sunset to stay safe in the heat and avoid peak temperatures.
There are currently no fire restrictions in the Coronado National Forest near Tucson, and the use of fireworks is illegal on all national forest land.
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Flagstaff weekend weather: Low 90s with sunny, clear skies
Sunny and clear skies are anticipated in Flagstaff over the holiday weekend, with highs in the low 90s and low temperatures sitting in the 50s.
The highest temperature should peak on Sunday at 93 degrees, according to the weather service.
However, areas below 4,000 feet in northern Arizona could see highs between 105 degrees and 115 degrees.
Excessively high temperatures are expected in Marble and Glen canyons, Yavapai County valleys and basins, and lower elevations of the Grand Canyon, according to the weather service.
Stage 1 fire restrictions are active in the Coconino National Forest, which prohibits fires fueled by combustible materials like wood, charcoal, briquettes, and coal outside of a developed site.
Hot weather tips
The Arizona Department of Health Services provided the following tips to prevent heat-related illness:
- Drink water: Drink at least 2 liters of water per day if staying inside all day. Those who spend time outdoors should drink 1 to 2 liters per hour they are outside.
- Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing. Sunscreen should always be applied to exposed skin. Wear a hat or use an umbrella when outdoors.
- Eat small meals and eat more often: Avoid foods high in protein that increase metabolic heat.
- Monitor those at risk: Check on friends, family or others for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Slow down: Do strenuous activity only during the coolest hours of the day, between 4 and 7 a.m.
- Stay indoors.
- Take breaks: Take a break in a cool place when doing physical activity outside on a hot day.
This article was generated by The Arizona Republic and USA TODAY Network using data released by the National Weather Service. It was edited by a staff member.
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