Take precautions during forecast heat warning this week

An excessive heat warning is in place for Maricopa today through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service, but there is a chance of rain by week’s end.

An warning means a period of very hot temperatures, even by local standards, will occur, with temperatures ranging 110-118 degrees F. Actions should be taken to lessen the impact of the extreme heat.

Suggested precautions for excessive heat: Stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings. Drink more water than usual and avoid dehydrating alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks. Dress for the heat – lightweight and light-colored clothing. Eat small meals and eat more often. Monitor those with a higher vulnerability to heat, including 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 kids or pets unattended in cars.

Today will be sunny and hot, with a high near 112. The overnight low will be around 85 under mostly clear skies.

Tuesday is expected to soar to 117, which is 11 degrees above average for the day, with very little breeze under sunny skies. The night will be partly cloudy with a low around 87.

Wednesday‘s forecast is for mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 114. Winds of 5-15 mph could gust up to 20 mph. The night is expected to be partly cloudy with a low around 87 and continuing winds.

Thursday may be mostly sunny, hot and breezy, with a high of 110. The overnight low will be around 83.

Friday, expect a partly sunny day with a high of 106, followed by a night with 10 percent chance of showers before 11 p.m. The low will be around 83.

That leads into a weekend of slightly cooler temperatures and slightly higher chance of rain.