Stay cautious during heat warning

Maricopa is under a heat warning until 8 p.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

Afternoon temperatures of 107 to 120 are expected across southern Arizona and Southern California. Nighttime low temperatures will stay in the high 80s.

Today’s high is expected to be 114 accompanied by winds of 10-15 mph gusting as high as 20 mph.

Sunday, the forecast sees a high of 116.

Monday, winds will return as the high temperature tops out at 114.

During a heat warning, overexposure can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion and, without intervention, can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke can be deadly.

NWS recommendations: Stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings. Drink water, more than usual, and avoid dehydrating alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks. Dress for the heat in lightweight and light-colored clothing. Eat small meals and eat more often.

Monitor those with a higher vulnerability to heat such as small children. Check in on family, friends and neighbors, especially the elderly. If engaging in outdoor activity, take longer and more frequent breaks and avoid the hottest parts of the day.

Never leave children or pets unattended in cars.

Early signs of heat-related illness include thirst, muscle cramps, cool and moist skin, headache, dizziness, weakness or exhaustion and nausea.

Signs of heat stroke include vomiting, confusion, throbbing headache, decreased alertness or loss of consciousness, high body temperature (above 105), hot and dry skin, rapid and weak pulse, rapid and shallow breathing and seizures.

After the heat warning lifts Monday night, the rest of the week is expected to maintain high temperatures of 109 to 111.