Another day, another heat record in Phoenix, as America’s hottest city sweltered through its warmest August day in over 120 years of record-keeping.<\/p>\n
The temperature soared to 118 degrees at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport at 3:40 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 7. The previous record for the hottest August day was 117 degrees, reached most recently in 2023.<\/p>\n
The daily record high of 112 degrees was broken before lunchtime as the heat continued to build through the afternoon.<\/p>\n
“We’re looking at unusually hot temperatures this week across the Phoenix metro,” said Mark O’Malley, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Phoenix. “There’s a strong area of high pressure which has settled directly over central Arizona.”<\/p>\n
The weather service has issued extreme heat warnings across much of the region, as the system keeps relief from monsoon showers limited to southeastern Arizona and Mexico.<\/p>\n
Rain chances are near zero well into next week, although there could be some thunderstorm chances over the mountains outside of the Valley.<\/p>\n
Overnight lows won\u2019t provide much relief, as temperatures are expected to stay in the mid-80s to the low 90s, which can be dangerous when people don\u2019t have time to cool down.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want people to use caution,\u201d O\u2019Malley said. \u201cDon\u2019t do strenuous activity outdoors, and if you must be outside, take as many breaks in air conditioning as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n
How to stay cool in extreme heat<\/p>\n
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don\u2019t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Limit outdoor activity: Try to stay indoors during peak heat hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Use sun protection: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen with at least SPF 30.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Check on vulnerable people: Keep an eye on the elderly, children and pets who are especially sensitive to the heat.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Know the signs of heat illness: Dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid heartbeat and confusion can signal heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Seek medical help immediately.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What to know: <\/strong>People living in these homes are more likely to die from heat in Arizona<\/a><\/p>\n