Extreme Heat: NWS issues excessive heat warning for Maricopa, Pinal, Coconino counties

Morning Weather Forecast - 7/17/22

Mostly sunny skies and a chance for rain in the Valley with a high near 111°F.

PHOENIX - People should prepare for a hot weekend, as the National Weather Service issued an Excessive Heat Warning.

The warning, according to NWS officials in Phoenix, covers Maricopa and Pinal Counties. It will take effect at 10:00 a.m. on July 16, and is scheduled to expire at 8:00 p.m. on July 17.

For Coconino County in areas below 4,000 feet elevation, the warning is from 9:00 a.m. July 16 through 7 p.m. on July 17.

"High Heat Risk. Overexposure can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion to develop and, without intervention, can lead to heat stroke," a portion of the warning reads.

The Arizona Department of Health Services says residents are advised to stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed.

MORE: Not getting enough water? Eat it with these hydrating foods

Preventing heat exhaustion/heat stroke

The Arizona Department of Health Services stated the following precautions can be taken to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

Stay in air-conditioned buildings
Find a cooling center/hydration station
Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (mid-day)
Check on at-risk friends, family, and neighbors at least twice a day
Drink water before, during, and after working or exercising outside
Check the UV Index
Check the heat risk map

Driving in extreme temperatures

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s tips for driving in extreme temperatures include:

Have sun protection: In addition to an umbrella, take sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat and wear loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.

Fuel up: Keep your tank at three-quarters full. Running out of gas, especially in a remote location, is dangerous in extreme heat.

Hydrate: Take a cooler to keep extra drinking water cold, and consider adding several frozen bottles of water to use for cooling off or to thaw and drink if needed. Make sure everyone, including pets, stays hydrated.

Get help: If your vehicle breaks down in extreme heat, call for assistance right away to reduce wait time, and run the AC. If the AC isn’t working, roll down all windows.

Wait safely: If the temperature inside your vehicle becomes too hot, everyone, including pets, should exit carefully and seek out or create a shaded area as far away from the travel lanes as possible. Be careful walking on the road surface, which can be hot enough to burn skin. Keep your shoes on and try to keep your pets’ paws off the pavement. If you are stopped along the highway, raise the front hood and turn on hazard lights. Please keep in mind that parking in tall brush can start a fire.

Check your vehicle: You can help avoid breakdowns and blowouts by making sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. Check your air conditioner and coolant levels, top off any vital engine fluids and make sure your battery is up to par. Check your tire pressure, as the combination of under inflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout.

MORE: https://azdot.gov/about/transportation-safety/severe-weather