The National Weather Service issued an Excessive Heat Warning Friday for nine Arizona counties, including Maricopa, Pima, and Yuma, with alerts lasting through Aug. 6 or 7 depending on the county. Officials said daytime temperatures were expected to reach between 110 and 117 degrees, creating major to extreme heat risk across much of southern Arizona.
The Excessive Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service covers nine Arizona counties: Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Maricopa, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, and Yuma. The warning’s effective period varies by county, beginning as early as 10 a.m. Friday and extending through either 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 6, or 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7, according to NWS Phoenix. For example, Gila County’s warning is in effect from 10 a.m. Friday through 8 p.m. Monday, while Graham and Greenlee counties have alerts lasting through 8 p.m. Sunday. La Paz County’s warning starts later, at 10 a.m. Saturday, and continues through 8 p.m. Monday.
Daytime temperatures across the affected areas are expected to reach between 110 and 117 degrees Fahrenheit.
Officials said daytime temperatures across the affected areas are expected to reach between 110 and 117 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Weather Service described the heat risk as “Major-Extreme HeatRisk” across much of southern Arizona, extending into parts of southeastern California. FOX 10 Phoenix reported the warning as part of a broader pattern of near-record high temperatures impacting the region.
The Arizona Department of Health Services advised residents to stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible to reduce the risk of heat-related illness. For those without access to air conditioning, the department recommended seeking out cooling centers or hydration stations. Officials also urged limiting outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day and checking on at-risk friends, family, and neighbors at least twice daily. Hydration was emphasized, with guidance to drink water before, during, and after outdoor work or exercise.
In cases of heat illness, the department provided specific response instructions. Individuals showing symptoms should be moved to shade or a cool location. Cooling measures include applying cool, wet cloths to the neck, groin, armpits, and head. If the person is alert, they should sip cool water. For muscle cramps, gentle but firm massage of the affected muscles is advised until relaxation occurs. Officials stressed that if symptoms worsen, emergency services should be contacted immediately by calling 911.
Additional safety precautions included monitoring the UV Index and heat risk maps before spending time outdoors. The department recommended using sunscreen, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and choosing light-colored clothing to mitigate heat exposure. Motorists were urged to keep their fuel tanks at least three-quarters full to prevent fuel shortages during breakdowns and to carry extra drinking water in vehicles. Drivers stranded in extreme heat were advised to call for help promptly. Officials also cautioned that pavement temperatures can become hot enough to cause skin burns and that pet owners should protect their animals’ paws from hot surfaces.
The warning follows a series of recent excessive heat alerts across the region, reflecting ongoing high temperatures during the summer months. The National Weather Service continues to monitor conditions and may issue additional updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and adhere to public safety guidance to reduce heat-related risks.
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