Arizona Braces for Dangerous Heat Wave as Monsoon Stays Silent

Arizona Braces for Dangerous Heat Wave as Monsoon Stays Silent

Arizona Braces for Dangerous Heat Wave as Monsoon Stays Silent

So, let’s talk about what’s happening with the weather in Arizona right now—especially if you're anywhere near Phoenix. A serious heat wave is bearing down on the state, and First Alert Weather Days have been officially issued for this Friday and Saturday, with more possibly on the way next week. And we’re not just talking about "it’s summer in the desert" hot—we’re talking dangerously high temperatures that could push Phoenix into record territory.

The reason behind all this? A strong ridge of high pressure is parked right over the Southwest, and it’s not going anywhere soon. Normally, this time of year brings monsoon moisture, which gives us a break with some cloud cover or even a quick storm. But not this week. That high-pressure system is blocking moisture from coming up from Mexico and is instead shoving what little there is off toward Southern California. So, while we ended July a bit cooler than last year, August is wasting no time in turning up the heat.

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Temperatures in Phoenix are expected to hover between 110 and 115 degrees through the weekend, with the potential to hit a blistering 117 by next Thursday. That’s well above the early August average of 106 degrees. And with the dry air hanging around—humidity dropping to as low as 10%—it’s not just uncomfortable, it’s downright dangerous.

Rain? Don’t count on it. There’s maybe a 10% chance Phoenix will see a drop or two, and after that, the atmosphere is expected to dry out even more. This continued lack of rain has kept the official monsoon total at Sky Harbor at a dismal 0.16 inches—far below normal. So, that classic Arizona summer thunderstorm? Yeah, it’s been pretty much a no-show this season.

The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings through at least August 2 for south-central Arizona. And up north, even the Grand Canyon is feeling it, especially in the lower elevations where temps could hit 113 degrees. That’s not something you expect to hear about one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders.

So, what does all this mean for you? Stay indoors if you can, drink water like it’s your job, and don’t leave pets—or people—in parked cars, even for a minute. If you absolutely have to be outside, try to keep it to early morning or evening hours and take breaks often.

This is shaping up to be a historic stretch of heat, and Arizona residents are being urged to take it seriously. It’s not just uncomfortable—it’s potentially life-threatening.

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