PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Unusually warm weather caught many Valley visitors off guard Wednesday, with temperatures climbing close to 90 degrees — surprising fans at spring training games and hikers on Phoenix trails.
Everyone in the stands at American Family Fields of Phoenix was hit with an unexpected wave of warm weather as the temperature climbed to 88 degrees.
“I was not expecting it to be this hot,” said baseball fan Sheri Conley.
“We’re moving to the shade — that’s how it feels out here. We’re literally going, ‘I can take some heat,’ but it’s cooking,” said another fan, Michael Tarentino.
Not all visitors were bothered. Erin and Marty Corey, visiting from Milwaukee, said the heat was a welcome change.
“We’re from Wisconsin — we don’t mind heat at all, this is wonderful,” Erin said. “It’ s very cold at home. This is much better.”
Near-record-breaking temperatures did not keep hikers away from Piestewa Peak in Phoenix, but many said they noticed the unusual warmth within minutes of hitting the trail.
“You just got to know your body, honestly. I take a break every 15 minutes, quick sips, sit down and then continue. I didn’t make it to the top — it was already too hot for me,” said hiker Joshua Nascimental.
Hikers Sally Dominguez and Amber Hannappel said the heat was immediately noticeable. “We could tell two minutes into the hike today it was definitely hotter,” they said.
First responders said anyone spending time outside should stay hydrated and know the warning signs of heat-related illness.
“That might mean nausea, rapid heart rate, dizziness — those signs mean you need to turn around and change the environment where you are at, or start calling 911 to get help,” said Phoenix Fire Department Captain DJ Lee.
Lee said it’s important to drink lots of water if you know you will be outside the next day.
It’s also important to wear proper clothing and make sure your phone is charged when going out on a hike.
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