Arizona weather forecast: Phoenix breaks heat record at 117 degrees as warning continues

Arizona extreme heat warning extended through Wednesday as storms hit the high country

The National Weather Service extended an extreme heat warning through Wednesday as heavy monsoon storms bring rain to Oak Creek, Sedona, and northern Arizona. FOX 10's Cory McCloskey has more on the hot temperatures in our future.

PHOENIX - A ridge of high pressure has centered over Arizona, bringing significant heat impacts across the region.

This Weekend:

It was a hot and active start to the weekend in the Valley with extreme heat warnings and monsoon activity remaining in the forecast.

Storms fired up along northern and eastern Arizona, with isolated storms, strong winds and dust storm warnings popping up on Saturday. Shower activity will lower Saturday night with more chances of monsoonal moisture through the rest of the weekend and into early next week. In Phoenix, storm chances rise to 20% from Saturday evening through Monday.

Phoenix hits 115 degrees, as active monsoon brings dust, gusty winds

Monsoon storms swept through Phoenix bringing 38 mph wind gusts, reduced visibility, and lightning while temperatures reached 115 degrees ahead of extended heat warnings. FOX 10's Ashley Loaeza has more on Saturday evening's isolated storms.

Any late-weekend storms will bring the potential for flooding, strong winds, blowing dust, and lightning. A hot and humid finish to the weekend left scattered thunderstorms across Arizona's high country, and high temperatures in the desert. Expect dew points in the 50s and 60s and rain favoring northern Arizona high terrain and southern parts of the state.

Sunday dropped down to around 110 degrees, following temperatures in Phoenix hitting a high of 115 degrees to start the weekend. Overnight lows on Sunday will also be warm in the 90s.

Looking Further Ahead:

There's no relief in sight, either, as the Extreme Heat Warning for the Phoenix-metro area has been extended through Wednesday, and will likely be extended into the weekend. Temperatures will dance around 110 degrees early in the week, with even hotter numbers to follow. Be careful out there!

A Look Back:

Heat wave expected to persist in Arizona

Phoenix weather is seeing triple digits. Maricopa County and Southern Arizona have issued an air quality alert. The Valley could see highs in the upper 110s this weekend.

On Friday, Phoenix hit a high of 117 degrees, breaking our 2023 record of 116 degrees. It was a hot start to the day with a morning low of 97 degrees – this ties our 2023 record of 97 degrees.

You can always check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.

Scroll down this page for satellite and radar, day planner, records, current temperatures, 10-day forecast, forecast highs, and recent rainfall totals, plus live video feeds.

The following heat safety information was provided by the Scottsdale Fire Department.

What are Heat Emergencies?

Heat Cramps: Profuse sweating, fatigue, extreme thirst, muscle cramps

Heat Exhaustion: Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea/vomit, Cool/moist skin

Heat Stroke: Elevated temp. +103degrees, confusion/irrational behavior, dry/hot skin, rapid shallow breathing, rapid weak pulse (shock), seizures, unconscious

What to do

Get person into shade or cool location.
Cool person with cool, wet cloths (neck, groin, armpits, head) and fan body.
Sip cool water if person is alert.
For muscle cramps, massage muscles gently, but firmly until relaxed.
*If symptoms worsen, call 911.

What not to do

Do not give anything by mouth if person is vomiting, unable to swallow or unconscious.
Do not underestimate the seriousness of a heat emergency.
Prevention/Preparation for hike/exercise in heat.

Know your limitations

Hydrate (begins day prior to hike/exercise, hour before hike, during and after).
Wear proper clothing, lightweight and light color, protect head, proper shoes.
Always carry a cell phone and best to hike with company.
Always tell someone where you are hiking and when to plan to return.

Preventing heat exhaustion/heat stroke

The Arizona Department of Health Services stated the following precautions can be taken to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

Stay in air-conditioned buildings.
Find a cooling center/hydration station.
Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (mid-day).
Check on at-risk friends, family, and neighbors at least twice a day.
Drink water before, during, and after working or exercising outside.
Check the UV Index.
Check the heat risk map.

Road Conditions

Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)

Rain/flood safety tips

The American Red Cross' tips for heavy rain situations and flood safety:

Turn around don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.
If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.
If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

Preparing for a severe thunderstorm

The American Red Cross' tips for preparing for a severe thunderstorm:

Put together an emergency kit.
Know your community’s evacuation plan.
Create a household disaster plan and practice it.
Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Discuss thunderstorm safety with members of your household. Be aware that a thunderstorm could produce flooding.
Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or glass doors, which could be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.

Be prepared and stay safe during the monsoon

"Most Valley residents know how quickly and furiously storms can move in and out, bringing strong winds, dust, rain, and flash flooding. These storms can cause interruptions in services, such as water, power, and gas," stated Captain Ashley Losch of the Glendale Fire Department.

GFD reminds residents of ways they can be prepared and stay safe:

Have flashlights with extra batteries on hand.
Have food that can be prepared without the need for cooking or refrigeration.
Have at least one gallon of clean water for each person in the household.
Have backup power for anyone requiring power for a medical device.
Have backup power for cell phones that do not require charging.
Have a first aid kit ready and accessible.
Never drive into areas with flowing water; it takes less than 10 inches to wash a car away.
Avoid flooded areas, such as washes.
If waters are rising, seek higher ground.
Do not approach downed power lines, the ground can be energized for up to 200 feet.
Keep pets indoors during storms.