Ahwatukee and the broader Phoenix metro area are gearing up for another wave of intense heat this week, with temperatures forecasted to soar. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch from Tuesday through Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach a blistering 111°F (43.8°C) or higher.
This sweltering forecast comes on the heels of last Thursday’s scorching 110°F (43.3°C) day, which set a new record with a high of 113°F (45°C). As we enter June, it’s clear that the heat is here to stay, and residents of Ahwatukee need to be prepared.
Monsoon Awareness Week Kicks Off
Coinciding with the heat wave, today marks the first day of Monsoon Awareness Week. This week is dedicated to providing valuable safety tips and information about the upcoming monsoon season, which brings its own set of challenges to the Valley of the Sun.
Morning temperatures at Sky Harbor have already been 5 degrees above normal, hitting a balmy 82°F. These higher-than-average temperatures are a stark reminder of the extreme weather conditions that are typical for this time of year.
Unusual Weather Patterns and Safety Tips
There’s an interesting weather feature developing in southwestern New Mexico. A mesoscale convective vortex (MCV) is forming out of a rogue 500mb cutoff, creating relatively dry atmospheric conditions where it’s spinning. This could trigger dry thunderstorms in western New Mexico and eastern Arizona as it heads north. Hikers in the Arizona White Mountains should be particularly cautious of lightning without much accompanying rain.
Preparing for the Heat
With the National Weather Service’s warnings in mind, it’s crucial for Ahwatukee residents to take precautions. Here are some tips to stay safe during the excessive heat watch:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Try to stay indoors during the peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Wear Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Ensure that elderly neighbors or those without air conditioning have access to cool environments.
A Regional Heat Wave
It’s not just Ahwatukee and Phoenix feeling the heat. Southern California, southern Nevada, and southwestern Arizona are all experiencing soaring temperatures. Las Vegas is also under an excessive heat watch, with highs expected to reach 111°F (43.8°C) on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Albuquerque has tied its record high of 100°F (37.7°C) set in 1981, highlighting the widespread nature of this early summer heat wave.
Monsoon Season and Rain Concerns
While the focus is currently on the heat, there are also concerns about potential rain. Thunderstorms forecasted for Monday could lead to flash floods in the burn scar areas of the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire of 2022 in northern New Mexico. This serves as a reminder of the dual threats of heat and rain that monsoon season can bring.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
As we navigate through these extreme weather conditions, staying informed and prepared is key. Keep an eye on updates from the National Weather Service and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.
For more information on Monsoon Awareness Week and how to stay safe during the heat, visit the National Weather Service website and stay tuned to local news updates.
