PHOENIX — The National Weather Service has extended an excessive heat warning through Sunday for much of the Valley as temperatures are expected to hover around 110 degrees and fire conditions are expected to become more critical.
The 12News Weather Team has forecast hot and dry conditions through the weekend with windier conditions expected Monday.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: Se extiende hasta el fin de semana la alerta de calor excesivo en el valle
As a result, the team is calling for Weather Impact Alert Days through Sunday. The goal is to help make sure everyone is prepared and has a plan to deal with the hot and windy conditions.
When:
Thursday, temperatures are expected to reach highs around 111 degrees. In parts of northern Arizona clouds will bring with them the potential for thunderstorms and spotty showers. Looking ahead to Friday and through the weekend gusty winds combined with the chance for dry lightning will increase the fire threat.
Impact on your life:
Increased heat can bring with it an increased risk of heat-related illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), heat-related illness can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs. The elderly and those suffering from chronic conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure.
Signs of heat-related illness include:
- High body temperature
- Hot, red skin
- Fast pulse
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
If you know someone in a high-risk group please make sure to check in on them through the weekend.
In addition to concerns about heat, there are increased fire concerns through the weekend.
The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management has implemented Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for all state lands.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions include:
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove other than in a developed campsite or picnic area is prohibited. Exemptions include persons using a device solely fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off.
- Smoking is prohibited unless: it is within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site/improved site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
- The discharging or using of any kind of fireworks and incendiary devices is prohibited.
- Welding or operating acetylene or other torch device with an open flame is prohibited.
What you need to know to prepare:
It is critical to stay hydrated as temperatures remain high over the next several days. According to the CDC, it is important to cut down on exercise, try to find a place with air conditioning to stay cool and wear lightweight loose-fitting clothing.
Maricopa County has expanded its available cooling centers and people can get a ride to a cooling center by calling Arizona 211 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
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