Phoenix breaks all-time record for warmest low, sets a new daily high

PHOENIX - Phoenix Sky Harbor reached a low of 97 degrees on Wednesday, making it the highest low temperature ever recorded in the city - and it set a new daily high of 119 degrees just a few hours later.

The previous record high set on this date was 116 degrees, which was set back in 1989.

The city also broke the all-time record low of 96 degrees that was set back in 2003.

The Valley continues to bust heat records in the middle of a historic heat wave. Wednesday is expected to be the 20th day with temperatures above 110 degrees in Phoenix, and the streak does not appear to be coming to an end for at least the next two weeks.

On Tuesday, Phoenix reached 118ºF, tying the record for the hottest day of 2023 and breaking the daily record of 115ºF set back in 1989.

Some outdoor workers continue to deal with extreme heat

Amid the extreme heat, many workers still have to work outside.

Among those who have to work outdoors are airport workers with duties on the tarmac. No matter how intolerable the hot temperatures may feel, line service workers still have to make sure that planes are safe, loaded, and serviced for travel.

"You've got the sun from above, you got the heat coming off the concrete, it's hard to explain it if you've never experienced it," said Amy George with Gateway Aviation Services.

According to workers, temperatures on the tarmac can be around 20F higher than the outdoor temperature. That means on a day with 116F temperatures, temperatures could reach 136F on the tarmac.

Meanwhile, employees are equipped with proper clothing, as well as properly hydrated.

"Provided with skin coverings, arm sleeves, cooling towels. Try to keep everybody as covered as we can, along with being able to manage it while we're here," said George.

Managers also increase hydration options and breaks, along with decreasing employees' heat exposure.

"We provide different hydration drinks for people when they come in. Always make sure people take water with them when they go outside, and as best can limit the amount one person spends outside. Don't get sick while they're here," said George.

Not all outdoor workers have to constantly deal with the extreme heat, however, as ice delivery workers cina get some measure of relief from the heat during the course of their day.

"It’s good. It’s just a high demand," said Matthew Ramirez. "Everybody wants ice right now."

Ramirez, however, says some people don't understand the work that is required of them.

"Everybody says we have the coolest job in the summer, but they don’t understand. We sweat it a lot. It’s a lot of work," said Ramirez.

Ramirez works for a company called AZ Iceman. The company began with one small truck, but later expanded to dozens of drivers who make deliveries 24/7. Ramirez makes about a dozen deliveries a day.