Temperatures are expected to be between 110 and 112 degrees throughout the weekend. Photo by Adam Wolfe

By Adam Wolfe

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for northern Pinal County from Thursday morning through Saturday evening.

Maricopa residents can expect to see temperatures between 110 and 112 degrees throughout the weekend. Residents should take precautions when commuting, and avoid being outside for extended periods of time. If residents are outside, it is recommended they wear hats and sunscreen and stay hydrated.

“An excessive heat watch will remain in effect from Thursday morning through Saturday evening,” the NWS said in a statement. “Exceeding high temperatures can cause heat related illness, including death, more easily than an average summer day. Those working or playing outdoors and those without air conditioning are most vulnerable.”

Thursday is expected to be sunny with a high near 110 degrees. The wind will stay calm near 6 mph throughout the day. Clouds may move in toward the evening, and the overnight low is expected to be 83 degrees.

Friday will be much of the same as temperatures are expected to reach 111 degrees. The forecast calls for mostly sunny skies with wind only reaching 5 mph. Clouds might move in throughout the night, but no moisture is expected.

Saturday is expected to be the final day of the excessive heat warning. Temperatures are projected to reach 110 degrees, and the wind is once again expected to stay calm. The overnight low is expected to only drop to 84 degrees.

As Sunday approaches, the temperatures are still expected to stay in the triple digits, but they are expected to drop to around 105 degrees.

Maricopa residents need to be aware of the symptoms associated with heat related illnesses. According to the NWS, “Symptoms include things such as headaches, thirst, muscle cramps and fainting. If left entreated, heat illness can lead to fatal heat stroke.”