Arizona is experiencing a dangerous heat wave as temperatures continue well above seasonal norms, prompting urgent alerts and public safety measures across the Phoenix metro and surrounding areas.
Scorching Temperatures Across Maricopa County
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning through 8 p.m. Friday for much of south-central Arizona—including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Glendale, and Buckeye—where daily highs are forecast to reach 114–117°F yourvalley.net+6forecast.weather.gov+6azfamily.com+6. Today’s peak of 114°F is expected to be matched or exceeded tomorrow, making Thursday the hottest day of the week .
These temperatures are 5–10°F above seasonal norms for mid-June and pose significant risks for heat-related illnesses, particularly for children, seniors, outdoor workers, and individuals without reliable access to cooling .
Health Risks & Protective Measures
Maricopa County’s extreme heat health alert designates the event as HeatRisk Level 4, indicating major to extreme risk. Phoenix recorded 395 heat-related deaths in 2023, though preliminary data for 2024 suggests a decline due in part to expanded relief efforts. However, fatalities and hospitalizations remain a critical concern .
The high heat also increases the risk of burn injuries as pavement, rocks, and metal objects can reach scalding temperatures. Emergency services report spikes in calls for burns and dehydration, prompting safety advisories azfamily.com.
Cooling Centers & Community Resources
The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) Heat Relief Network has activated dozens of cooling and hydration centers across the Valley. These include:
- Libraries like Harmon and Cholla in Phoenix operating extended hours to 10 p.m.
- A 24/7 heat respite and navigation center at 20 W. Jackson St., catering especially to unhoused individuals maricopa.gov+8abc15.com+8azmag.gov+8.
- Salvation Army heat-relief stations (11 total) offering water and respite from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. daily kjzz.org.
Residents are encouraged to call 2-1-1 Arizona to locate nearby open centers .
Public Safety and Transportation Alerts
- Oak motorists: ADOT cautions drivers to monitor coolant levels, tire pressure, and battery health to reduce breakdowns amid extreme heat.
- Transit riders: Valley Metro warns of potential delays, urging travelers to carry water and avoid midday travel.
- General public: The NWS recommends rescheduling outdoor work, staying in shaded or air-conditioned spaces, wearing lightweight clothing, and staying hydrated. Heat stroke risks remain high aristotleair.comphoenix.govforecast.weather.gov.
Urban Heat Island & Long-Term Planning
Phoenix’s urban heat island effect exacerbates temperatures by an additional 7–10°F over rural surroundings on hot days. City officials have implemented measures from the 2025 Heat Response Plan, including:
- Expanded cooling centers and hydration stations
- Shade-building (Shade Phoenix Plan)
- Worker safety protocols
- Outreach to vulnerable populations, especially in mobile-home and low-income areas maricopa.gov+1aristotleair.com+1phoenix.gov.
Despite these strategies, public health experts stress vigilance as this is the peak heat season.
Forecast Forecast & Next Steps
Temperatures are expected to remain in the 112–117°F range through Friday before easing slightly early next week. Still, the risk remains high throughout the heat season .
Key Takeaways
- Record-high heat persists with 114–117°F highs through Friday.
- HeatRisk Level 4 issues major health alerts; cooling centers open region-wide.
- Precautions essential: avoid outdoor activity in peak hours, stay hydrated, wear proper clothing.
- Public services activated: cooling shelters, transportation advisories, community outreach.
Residents are urged to check cooling center availability via 2‑1‑1 or the MAG Heat Relief website, and to stay aware of heat safety tips for themselves and others.