PHOENIX — Excessive heat and increased fire danger are expected to move into the area beginning Thursday, triggering 12News Weather Impact Alert Days.
The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for Thursday and Friday as temperatures in parts of the Valley are expected to hit 115 degrees.
Along with the increase in temperatures, the 12News weather team is forecasting increased monsoon moisture and possible storms in the higher elevations.
These storms bring with them an increased fire threat including the potential for dry lightning and gusty winds.
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In preparation for the excessive heat, experts with the Centers for Disease Control and the National Weather Service encourage people to stay hydrated, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and find air conditioning because fans may not be enough.
According to the CDC, the elderly and those battling chronic conditions can be at higher risk during high temperatures so people are encouraged to check in on those that might be at risk.
To make sure you're prepared for a potential wildfire the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends families take the following steps:
- Sign up to receive local emergency alerts on all phones and devices
- Know your community's evacuation plan
- Plan an evacuation route and an alternate route
- Make sure friends or family know your evacuation plan
FEMA also reminds drivers to make sure if they are towing something behind their vehicle to make sure chains are not dragging.
The peak of the heat is expected Friday but the triple-digit temperatures are expected to last through the weekend.
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