Phoenix temps to drop below 110 degrees with monsoon rains approaching.

Phoenix temps to drop below 110 degrees with monsoon rains approaching.

Record-Breaking Heatwave Brings Searing Temperatures to Phoenix and Beyond

As the scorching heat continues to grip the southwestern United States, forecasters predict a welcome relief from the oppressive temperatures in Phoenix, Arizona, by Monday. However, for 30 consecutive days, the desert city has experienced high temperatures surpassing 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 degrees Celsius), setting a new record. The previous record was 18 days of such extreme heat back in 1974. This relentless heatwave has not only broken records but is also causing concern for the well-being of both human and animal inhabitants.

Fortunately, an anticipated increase in cooling monsoon thunderstorms on Sunday brings hope for some respite. However, these storms also bring the potential for damaging winds, blowing dust, and the risk of flash flooding. It is crucial to be cautious of sudden rainfalls that may fill the usually dry washes due to the hard-baked surfaces in the region. Despite this, there is a glimmer of relief as the overnight low temperature at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport finally dropped under 90 F (32.2 C) after a continuous streak of 16 days above this mark.

While Phoenix has borne the brunt of the heat, other cities in the region, such as Las Vegas, Albuquerque, and Death Valley, are also experiencing unyielding high temperatures. Death Valley, known for its extreme heat, is expected to see a slight decrease, reaching 113 F (45 C) by Tuesday. Furthermore, parts of California’s San Joaquin Valley are expected to face triple-digit temperatures this weekend. However, it’s not just heat that Californians have to contend with, as gusty winds in Santa Barbara County pose an elevated risk of fire weather.

The heatwave’s impact extends beyond human inhabitants, as wildlife also struggles to cope. In Burbank, California, police encountered a bear seeking respite in a Jacuzzi. A video released by the police showcased the bear cooling off, while residents were warned to secure their food and garbage.

The recent intense heatwave punctuated a turning point in the weather pattern as Phoenix experienced its first major monsoon storm in mid-July. Although the entire Phoenix area did not receive rainfall, parts of the eastern suburbs were pummeled with high winds, dust storms, and localized downfalls of up to 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of rain. This marks the start of a trend in which storms are expected to increase in intensity over the weekend.

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Globally, this July is set to be the hottest on record, with experts suggesting it may be the warmest period in human civilization. The eastern part of the United States is now also feeling the heat, as soaring temperatures move from the Midwest into the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Some places are witnessing their warmest days of the year so far. These new heat records are just one aspect of the extreme weather seen across the U.S. this month, including flash floods in Pennsylvania and other parts of the Northeast.

Amidst this record heat, it is imperative to take precautions to stay safe. The Goodyear Fire Department, a Phoenix suburb, has warned residents via social media about the risks of being outside during this heatwave. This advice is especially crucial for vulnerable populations such as older adults, individuals with health issues, and those without access to air conditioning.

Maricopa County, which is the most populous county in Arizona, has reported 25 heat-associated deaths this year as of July 21, with 249 more under investigation. These numbers are expected to change as toxicological tests, conducted during autopsies, yield further results. Last year, the county confirmed 425 heat-associated deaths, with over half occurring in July.

Looking ahead, the southwestern region can expect a gradual decrease in temperatures. Yuma, an agricultural desert community in Arizona, will experience highs ranging from 104 to 112 F (40 C to 44.4 C), while Tucson will see highs between 99 and 111 F (37.2 C to 43.9 C). Las Vegas, after an extended period of highs above 110 F (43.3 C), will reach a comparatively cooler 94 F (34.4 C) next Tuesday. Death Valley, known for its extreme heat, will also see a slight cool down to 116 F (46.7 C). Meanwhile, Albuquerque, New Mexico, can expect temperatures in the mid to high 90s F (around 35 C) with partially cloudy skies.

The unrelenting heat leaves communities and individuals grappling with the challenging circumstances brought by this record-breaking heatwave. As we navigate these torrid conditions, it is crucial to prioritize safety, preserve water resources, and offer support to those in need.