PHOENIX — More sweltering heat appears to be headed to parts of Arizona and Nevada this week.
The National Weather Service said Sunday that an excessive heat watch is in effect Tuesday through Thursday for the Phoenix metro area plus other portions of south-central and northwest Arizona.
Temperatures could reach 111 F (43.8 C) or higher during that span.
“As we get to these first couple weeks of June, a lot of places are really starting to see those temperatures escalate,” said Todd Shoemake of the National Weather Service in Albuquerque. “Southern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Arizona, they’re starting to see lots of triple digits.”
Last Thursday, Phoenix hit 110 F (43.3 C) for the first time this year with a record-setting high of 113 F (45 C).
Meanwhile, dangerously hot conditions are being forecast for central Las Vegas with highs ranging from 108 F (47.7 C) on Tuesday and 111 F (43.8 C) on Wednesday.
Las Vegas reached 111 F (43.8 C) last Thursday and 110 F (43.3 C) last Friday, both records for the dates by one degree Fahrenheit.
Albuquerque, where the normal high this time of year is 89 F (31.7 C), tied the record Friday of 100 F (37.7 C) set in 1981.
In New Mexico, where Albuquerque’s normal high this time of year is 89 F (31.7 C), the city tied the record Friday of 100 F (37.7 C) set in 1981.
But there is more concern about rain than heat right now. Thunderstorms on Monday could lead to flash floods in the burn scar of the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire of 2022 that changed the landscape of San Miguel, Mora and Taos counties in northern New Mexico.
The National Weather Service has issued a warning for the Phoenix and Las Vegas regions, predicting continued high temperatures for the upcoming week. Residents in these areas are being advised to take precautions to stay safe and cool during this heatwave.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures in Phoenix are expected to reach well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the week, with some days reaching as high as 110 degrees. In Las Vegas, temperatures are also expected to soar, with highs in the upper 90s and low 100s.
Extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur if proper precautions are not taken.
To stay safe during this heatwave, residents are advised to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must be outside, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid strenuous activities and seek shade whenever possible.
It is also important to never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a short period of time. The interior of a car can quickly reach dangerous temperatures, putting those inside at risk of heat-related illness or death.
Local officials are urging residents to check on elderly neighbors and family members to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated during this heatwave. Cooling centers may also be available in the area for those who do not have access to air conditioning.
As always, it is important to stay informed about the weather forecast and any heat advisories issued by the National Weather Service. By taking precautions and staying informed, residents can stay safe and healthy during this period of extreme heat in the Phoenix and Las Vegas regions.
