Triple-digit temperatures will build to heat warning this week

May 31, 2016

The Arizona deserts are heating up dramatically this week.

An excessive-heat warning will be in place beginning Friday in Maricopa, with Saturday likely the hottest day, according to the National Weather Service. But temperatures will already be in triple digits by Wednesday.

Today will have the mildest weather for the foreseeable future. Expect the high to be around 98 degrees under sunny skies. Daytime winds of 10 mph will grow to 15 mph, with patchy blowing dust before 9 p.m. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 68. Winds could gust up to 20 mph.

Wednesday, the forecast calls for sunny skies and a high near 102. Winds could again grow to gusts of up to 20 mph. Wednesday night, the low will be around 69 with strong breezes.

Thursday, again look for sunny skies, with the high increasing to 108 and light winds. Overnight the low will be around 73.

Friday comes the scorcher, and it will be relentless at least for the next few days. Friday’s high is expected to be about 112 degrees. The overnight low will be around 74, with mild breezes.

The weekend is expected to see highs between 113 and 115 degrees.

NWS warns of the likelihood of heat-related illnesses for those doing strenuous activity outdoors or those with health conditions who do not have air conditioning. If untreated, those illness could be fatal.

Reminders:

Never leave children or pets unattended in cars.
Drink more water than usual and avoid alcohol, sugar and caffeine.
When outdoors wear light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to keep your head and body cooler.
Take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Public places with air conditioning included libraries and other government buildings, community centers malls and special refuge stations.

Recognize the signs of heat illness.

Early symptoms: