Phoenix and much of central and southern Arizona are under an Extreme Heat Warning through Monday evening as temperatures soar into the 110s, while meteorologists cautiously anticipate the early start of the 2025 monsoon season beginning around June 15. The dangerous heat wave and emerging monsoon patterns pose urgent challenges for public safety and resource management across Maricopa and surrounding counties.
Scorching Heat Hits New Milestone
Phoenix recorded a blistering high of 109°F (43°C) today, with forecasts indicating highs of up to 115°F (46°C) on Sunday—the first 110-degree days of the year in the Valley abc15.com. The National Weather Service has extended an Extreme Heat Warning for central and southern Arizona—including Buckeye, Avondale, Cave Creek, North Phoenix, Scottsdale, and South Mountain—until 8 p.m. Monday, citing potential for heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other heat-related health risks .
Maricopa County officials are advising residents to seek air-conditioned spaces, drink ample water, and avoid outdoor exertion during peak hours. Cooling centers are open countywide, and hotlines such as 2‑1‑1 are available for resources and assistance .
Record‑Setting Trends Continue
Phoenix is on pace to log its first 110°F-plus days of the year, a concerning milestone in a record-setting summer. Valley temperatures have exceeded 110°F an average of 21 days per year—and more than 70 times last year—according to long-term climate data en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1. Recent forecasts show multiple consecutive days above 111°F, intensifying the heat wave’s impact on vulnerable populations.
Monsoon Season Nears—but Storms May Be Delayed
Monsoon Awareness Week, observed from June 8–14, prepares Arizona residents for the transition to summer storm season forecast.weather.gov+1abc15.com+1forecast.weather.gov+2weather.gov+2weather.gov+2. Officially, the monsoon season begins June 15, marked by a shift in atmospheric circulation. However, meteorologists caution that rain may not arrive until late June or early July, depending on moisture influx from the Gulf of California and shifts in the Four Corners high pressure ridge en.wikipedia.org.
NWS probabilistic forecasts suggest a 33–50% chance of above-normal precipitation across eastern and central Arizona in the upcoming monsoon, though lower odds remain for the Yuma region weather.gov+1en.wikipedia.org+1.
Public Safety Measures Ramp Up
Local authorities urge residents to heed safety warnings, especially during peak heat hours. The Maricopa County Office of Emergency Management is operating 24/7 cooling centers and distributing fan kits to residents in need. Healthcare providers are on alert for heat-related emergencies, particularly among the elderly, outdoor workers, and those without reliable cooling .
National Weather Service Phoenix recommends rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening, staying hydrated, and recognizing symptoms of heat illnesses like cramps, exhaustion, and stroke 12news.com+4abc15.com+4fox10phoenix.com+4.
Broader Climate Context
Arizona’s climate is trending hotter and drier, with Phoenix averaging 111 days per year at or above 100°F—one of the highest in the nation 12news.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2. In 2024, the city experienced a record 70 days over 110°F, and recent data show temperature anomalies continuing into this year 12news.com.
Climate experts warn that the convergence of record heat, prolonged drought, and delayed monsoon rains heightens wildfire risk, worsens air quality, and strains public health systems .
What Residents Should Know
- Extreme Heat Warning in effect through Monday (June 16), with highs of 111–115°F.
- Cooling resources: Maricopa County operates public cooling centers; call 2-1-1 for locations.
- Monsoon readiness: Official season begins June 15, but rain may not arrive until late June or July.
- Stay safe: Avoid outdoor activity midday, hydrate frequently, and monitor at-risk individuals for heat illness.
Looking Ahead
This heat wave serves as a stark reminder of Arizona’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather, exacerbated by climate change. As Phoenix braces for uninterrupted triple-digit days, the hope for monsoon relief remains—but whether it arrives on time to provide cooling and rainwater recharge is uncertain.
Public officials continue urging urgency in preparation: layer safety plans for heat stress and monsoon hazards, stay informed via NWS updates, and leverage public resources to stay cool and hydrated through this challenging stretch.