TUCSON, Ariz. – Residents across Southern and Central Arizona are facing a dangerous wave of heat this weekend, with temperatures potentially soaring to 111 degrees in the Tucson metro area from Saturday morning through Monday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect for a wide swath of the state, including Pima, Pinal, and Cochise counties. The watch, which begins Saturday morning, warns of dangerously hot conditions persisting through Monday evening. Areas such as the Gila River Valley, the Tohono O’odham Nation, and western Pima County are expected to see the most extreme temperatures.
Cities included in the watch are Tucson, Ajo, Safford, Sells, Sierra Vista, and Green Valley. In these locations, the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke increases significantly. Officials advise residents to take extra precautions, especially those who work or spend time outdoors.
To stay safe, residents should drink plenty of fluids, remain in air-conditioned spaces, and avoid direct sun. The NWS also urges people to check on relatives and neighbors, particularly the elderly. Leaving young children or pets in unattended vehicles is strongly discouraged, as car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes. Those engaging in outdoor activities should consider rescheduling them to the early morning or late evening.
