Hundreds of Thousands Told To Avoid Sun: 'Deadliest Weather Phenomenon'
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Hundreds of thousands of people have been advised to stay out of the sun this week due to "dangerously hot conditions" forecast in two states.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued extreme heat warnings for large swathes of southern Arizona and southeast California from Tuesday morning until Thursday evening.
Temperatures are forecast to reach 119 degrees Fahrenheit in parts, and the warnings cover major urban areas including Phoenix.
A heat wave in the Death Valley National Park, California, in July 2024.
A heat wave in the Death Valley National Park, California, in July 2024.
Ty ONeil/AP
Why It Matters
The NWS warned there will be a major heat risk in affected areas, and that overexposure to the sun can lead to heat cramps, exhaustion and eventually heat stroke.
"Don't underestimate the heat! It is the deadliest weather phenomenon in the USA," it said. "An extreme heat warning means that a period of very hot temperatures, even by local standards, will occur. Actions should be taken to lessen the impact of the extreme heat.
"Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors."
It added: "Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes."
What To Know
In Arizona, the extreme heat warnings are in effect from 10 a.m. on Tuesday until 8 p.m. on Thursday. Counties impacted by the warnings include: Yuma, La Paz, Yavapai, Maricopa, Gila, Pinal, Pima, Graham, Greenlee, Coconino.
In parts of Phoenix, home to around 1.65 million people, temperatures could reach 117 degrees Fahrenheit.
In California, extreme heat warnings are in force from 10 a.m. on Wednesday until 8 p.m. on Thursday. Counties impacted by the warnings include: San Diego, Imperial, Riverside and San Bernardino.
In its warning, the NWS said: "Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
"To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911."
What People Are Saying
The NWS forecast office in Phoenix wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday: "Extreme heat is back in the forecast this week. Temperatures will continue to climb each day, peaking on Wednesday when highs are expected to reach 110F-116F across the lower deserts. Make sure you take extra precautions and practice smart heat safety."
"Drink a cup of cool water every 20 minutes, even if you aren't thirsty. For long jobs, drink a beverage with electrolytes. Take regular breaks to rest. During hot conditions, skipping breaks is not safe! Seek periodic breaks in the AC if possible. Spend time in the shade when outdoors."
The NWS forecast office in Los Angeles wrote on X: "Hotter weather is on it's way starting Tuesday. Temps will peak Wednesday and Thursday this week across most areas, but heat may linger through the weekend across the interior areas. Ensure you are prepared for the heat and know the signs and what to do in case of heat illness."
What Happens Next
The extreme heat warnings for the affected regions are currently set to remain in force until 8 p.m. on Thursday.
Regular forecast updates are issued by the NWS on its website.
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