Tucson, Arizona – A dangerous and prolonged heat wave will grip Southern Arizona this week. Temperatures are set to climb significantly, creating life-threatening conditions for residents and disrupting holiday plans. The most intense heat is expected to arrive just in time for Juneteenth.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect from 10 a.m. Thursday to 9 p.m. Friday. This warning covers the Tucson metropolitan area, along with parts of Pima, Pinal, and Cochise counties. Residents in cities from Ajo to Safford and Nogales should prepare for the extreme temperatures. Officials urge everyone to limit time outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
The heat builds starting Wednesday, which will see sunny skies and a high near 109 degrees. Conditions intensify on Thursday for the Juneteenth holiday, with a peak temperature of 114°F. Such heat dramatically increases the risk of heat-related illnesses. Anyone planning outdoor celebrations should consider moving them indoors or rescheduling for cooler hours. Stay hydrated and check on neighbors, especially the elderly.
Travel along major roadways like Interstate 10 and Interstate 19 will be impacted. The pavement can become dangerously hot, increasing the risk of tire blowouts. Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, where temperatures can become lethal in minutes.
The extreme heat will linger through the end of the workweek, with a high of 111°F expected on Friday. Conditions will moderate slightly over the weekend, though it will remain hot. Warnings for extreme heat remain in effect through Friday evening.
Here is a look at your five-day forecast:
- Wednesday: [Sunny and hot] High: 109°F, Low: 75°F
- Thursday (Juneteenth): [Sunny and hot] High: 114°F, Low: 78°F
- Friday: [Hot] High: 111°F, Low: 76°F
- Saturday: [Sunny] High: 107°F, Low: 75°F
- Sunday: [Sunny] High: 102°F, Low: 71°F
