Excessive heat, poor air quality expected this week

Excessive heat and poor air quality are the norm for the valley during the weekend, with abnormal temperatures expected to persist throughout the week.

National Weather Service meteorologist James Sawtelle said “excessively hot weather” will start the week in the valley with high temperatures between six and eight degrees above normal.

Temperatures in Phoenix could hit 107-110 degrees on Sunday and Monday, during which time there is an excessive heat warning in place.

A “very mild and very gradual” cooling trend will set in on Tuesday that will bring the expected high temperatures down to 103-105 degrees, Sawtelle said, adding that those temperatures are still above normal for this time of year.

The weekend will bring temperatures closer to normal, with expected highs hovering around 100 degrees.

The valley is unlikely to rain, although Sawtelle said there could be a “slight spike” in humidity towards the end of the week.

Sawtelle said that after midsummer, people “get a little cocky” when it comes to the heat in the valley.

“When it comes to the September heat in Phoenix, you really can’t be on your guard and you really have to respect the heat,” he said, urging the public to do outdoor activities like exercising and gardening during the cooler hours of the year the day.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued a high ozone pollution warning on Friday that will last until Sunday in the Phoenix area.

The department advised people to stay indoors, especially if they have asthma, bronchitis, or any heart or lung disease.

High levels of ozone are created by pollutants mainly from vehicles and industry. The department urged residents to reduce ozone levels by driving less, refueling with petrol tanks in the evening and avoiding waiting times in transit lines if possible.

Reporter Laura Daniella Sepúlveda contributed to this article.

Reach the reporter at [email protected] or 602-444-8529. Follow her on Twitter @brieannafrank.

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