As another heatwave sweeps through Phoenix, the National Weather Service has once again issued an extreme heat warning, effective from Tuesday to Thursday. Such warnings have become increasingly common this year, reflecting a broader trend of rising temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service, Phoenix is nearing a record-breaking year in terms of heat warnings. With 47 days of such warnings slated by the end of this week, the city is just short of the 48-day record set in 2020. The year 2026 is poised to become the hottest year on record in Phoenix.
The criteria for issuing an extreme heat warning are not fixed, as they depend on the average temperature for the season. The National Weather Service explains, “A temperature of 105 in May will seem hot, whereas the same temperature in June or July will not seem as hot because our bodies have acclimated to the heat. Hence, there is not one single, constant temperature used to determine when an alert will be issued.”
This week, temperatures in Phoenix are expected to peak at 109 degrees, significantly above the norm for early September. Night temperatures could reach up to 89 degrees, potentially setting new records.
Heat remains the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the U.S. In Maricopa County alone, heat has been a factor in at least 136 deaths this year, with many more under investigation.
The National Weather Service advises caution during extreme heat events. “When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening,” they recommend. “Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.”
Residents in Maricopa County without air conditioning can access free transportation to cooling centers or can seek heat relief services by calling 211.
With the fall season approaching, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center anticipates that most of the U.S., including Arizona, will experience above-average temperatures.
