MESA, Ariz. — Thousands in the East Valley were left without power Monday morning after overnight monsoon storms caused numerous outages.
Salt River Project (SRP) technicians are estimating that some of the outages won't be restored until late Monday afternoon, when temperatures are expected to hit around 109 degrees. See live power updates on SRP's website here.
ORIGINAL STORY: Monsoon storm cuts power overnight to thousands in the Valley
The Valley is currently in its usual summer tradition of extreme heat, which is defined as a period of at least two to three days of temperatures above 90 degrees, according to Arizona's Emergency Information Network (AZEIN).
Periods of extreme heat increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations and those without access to air conditioning, the National Weather Service (NWS) said.
Where to find heat relief if your air conditioning shuts off:
Arizona has a state-wide heat relief network that shows there are numerous cooling and hydration stations in the East Valley.
AZEIN has numerous recommendations for people to avoid extreme heat, including:
- Limiting exposure to the sun by staying indoors as much as possible
- Find places in your community where you can get cool, like libraries, movie theaters, shopping malls or other community facilities.
- Continuously drink water, even if you don't feel thirsty
- Avoid caffeinated drinks
SRP ice reimbursement program:
If you're a customer with SRP who has been affected by an unplanned outage lasting 5 or more hours, you can get reimbursed for up to $10 of the cost of buying ice.
How to get reimbursed:
- Email help@srpnet.com
- Subject line: Ice Reimbursement
- Include: Name, address, copy of your receipt of ice purchase
Signs of heat-related illness:
NWS listed numerous potential signs of heat-related illnesses, and how you can treat them, including:
- Heat Cramps
Symptoms - Heavy sweating along with pain or spasms in leg and/or abdomen muscles.
First Aid - Put firm pressure on cramping muscles. Gently massage muscles that are spasming. Give sips of water until/unless the individual says they're nauseous.
Seek medical attention if cramps last longer than an hour.
- Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms - Heavy sweating, tiredness, and cool or clammy skin. Dizziness, nausea, headaches and vomiting may also be present, along with fainting.
First Aid - Get the individual to a cooler place and loosen clothing. Put cool, wet cloths on the person or put them in a cool bath while offering them sips of water.
Seek medical attention if the individual vomits, symptoms worsen or any of the symptoms last longer than an hour.
- Heat Stroke
Symptoms - Headaches, confusion, nausea, or dizziness accompanied with a temperature at or above 103 degrees. Skin is hot, red, dry or damp. Pulse is rapid and strong. Be cautious of fainting or loss of consciousness.
First Aid - Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention and do NOT give fluids. Move the individual to a cooler area. Only use a fan if temperatures are below 90 degrees since a fan can make you hotter at higher temperatures.
Arizona weather
Drought, wildfires, heat and monsoon storms: Arizona has seen its fair share of severe weather. Learn everything you need to know about the Grand Canyon State's ever-changing forecasts here.