Weather warning: Extreme heat warning for Phoenix

PHOENIX — The National Weather Service said an extreme heat warning is in effect for parts of Arizona Friday and Saturday.

According to the NWS, the warning is in effect for south-central and southwest Arizona on both days. The warning is in effect from 10 a.m. Friday to 8 p.m. Saturday.

In areas with extreme heat warnings, temperatures between 40 and 48 degrees can be expected.

The valley has experienced several days of extreme heat in recent weeks, and temperatures of around 43 degrees Celsius are forecast for the coming week.

12News has issued weather alerts for the next few days as highs are expected to be in the high 46s and lows around 32s. The goal is to make sure everyone is prepared and has a plan to deal with the hot conditions.

Temperatures around 46 degrees are expected by Saturday evening. Temperatures of 46 degrees or more will persist through the beginning of the weekend.

Increased heat can bring an increased risk of heat-related illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), heat-related illness can damage the brain and other vital organs. It particularly affects the elderly and people with chronic conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure.

In 2023, more than 600 people died in Maricopa County as a result of heat.

Signs of heat-related illness include:

• High body temperature
• Hot, red skin
• Fast pulse
• Headache
• dizziness
• Nausea
• confusion

RELATED TOPICS: Heat-related illnesses: What symptoms to look out for and how to protect yourself

If you know someone who is in the risk group, be sure to visit them at the weekend.

As temperatures remain high over the next few days, it’s important to stay hydrated. According to the CDC, it’s important to reduce exercise, find a place with air conditioning to cool off, and wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

Maricopa County has cooling centers and residents can book a ride to a cooling center by calling Arizona 211 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The NWS offers residents the following precautions during extreme heat:

• Drink enough
• Avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Use air conditioning if you have access to it. Fans may not be enough.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing

Here are some links to resources to help you stay cool in extreme heat.

We will continue to monitor the current weather situation and follow its development. Stay with 12News for the latest updates.

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