Dangerously High Temperatures Expected In Tucson This Week

TUCSON, AZ —The National Weather Service on Tuesday issued an excessive heat warning for Thursday in portions of south central and southwest Arizona, including the Tucson metro area.

The NWS said the warning will be in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. During that time, dangerously hot conditions will be present, with afternoon high temperatures expected to reach 111 degrees, according to the NWS forecast.

The entire week will be hot, with Tuesday's high temperature expected to be 104 degrees and Wednesday's high temperature predicted at 106 degrees. After Thursday's dangerous heat, the high temperature on Friday is expected to fall to 106 degrees.

Overexposure to the heat can cause heat cramps and exhaustion. This can lead to heat stroke, which can be deadly, the NWS said.

Among the early signs of heat-related illness are thirst and muscle cramps. Signs of heat exhaustion may include: cool, moist, pale skin, headache, dizziness; weakness or exhaustion and nausea.

Signs of heat stroke, include: vomiting, confusion, throbbing headache, decreased alertness or loss of consciousness, high body temperature — above 105 degrees — hot and dry skin, rapid and weak pulse, shallow breathing and seizures.

Anyone exhibiting these signs or witnessing them in somebody else should call 911.

In order to prevent heat-related medical issues, the NWS advises people to stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings, drink more water than usual and avoid dehydrating alcoholic or sugary, caffeinated beverages.

People also should dress for the heat, wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing. The NWS also recommends eating small meals, though eating more often.

It's also important to monitor people with a higher vulnerability to heat, including small children and the elderly.

"Check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly," The NWS said in a statement. "If engaging in outdoor activity, take longer and more frequent breaks and avoid the hottest parts of the day. Never leave kids or pets unattended in cars."

For people who do not have access to air-conditioned shelter, public cooling facilities are available in many areas.

A list of cooling center locations and information is available on the Pima County website.

The NWS asks residents to monitor NWS forecasts, broadcast outlets and local government websites for heat-related updates.