Heat Wave Headed For Tucson: Above Normal Temps, Excessive Heat Watch

TUCSON, AZ — The Tucson area's first wave of extreme heat in 2022 is expected to hit the city Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

The highs on Thursday and Friday are expected to be around 107, with highs of 109 and 108 on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. Lows are expected to be in the mid-70s, providing some nighttime relief.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for Tucson from Thursday morning through Sunday evening, with the hottest temperatures expected Saturday and Sunday afternoon.

Temperatures in the Tucson area are expected to be between 3 and 10 degrees above normal for this time of year.

The weather service warns of a high heat risk during the watch with the possibility of heat related illnesses, "including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke" which can be fatal.

The weather service advises staying inside in air-conditioned buildings, staying hydrated and not leaving kids or pets unattended in cars.

It's also recommended to check in on those particularly vulnerable to the heat, including young children and the elderly.

The city of Tucson opens its emergency cooling centers on days when temperatures reach 110 degree or hotter.

According to the weather service, early signs of heat related illness include thirst and muscle cramps. Signs of heat exhaustion 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; hot, dry skin; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing and seizures.

If you or someone else has signs of heat stroke, you should call 911, because it can be deadly, the weather service advised.