Arizona weather forecast: Warmer-than-normal highs in the state

PHOENIX – A couple of hotter than average days before a nice weekend cool down!

Thursday and Friday:

High pressure continues to bring warmer-than-normal temperatures to the state. The forecast high is 100 degrees on Thursday and Friday in Phoenix. The average is around 95 degrees this time of year. It will be sunny and just a bit breezy in northern Arizona on Thursday.

By Friday, winds will increase around the state as an area of low pressure and associated cold front start to approach the state. Wind gusts will reach around 35-45 mph in Flagstaff and 20-25 mph in Phoenix. There is a wind advisory in place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. over parts of northern Arizona, including northern Coconino County and parts of Apache and Navajo Counties.

While Friday will still be warmer, there is a low chance for showers or storms along far eastern Arizona.  Most of the state, including Phoenix, remains dry and sunny.

This Weekend:

Some lingering breezy to windy weather is forecast, particularly in northeastern Arizona, on Saturday. Gusts may continue at 30+ mph in areas like the White Mountains through the start of the weekend. Temperatures will fall as a cold front passes. Highs are expected to cap in the low 90s around the Valley. It will remain sunny and dry all weekend.

Next Week:

Rain chances may increase late next week – dependent upon tropical moisture that could shift our direction. It’s too early for certainty, but something the FOX 10 Weather Experts are watching!

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.

Driving in extreme temperatures

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s tips for driving in extreme temperatures include: 

Have sun protection: In addition to an umbrella, take sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat and wear loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.

Fuel up: Keep your tank at three-quarters full. Running out of gas, especially in a remote location, is dangerous in extreme heat.

Hydrate: Take a cooler to keep extra drinking water cold, and consider adding several frozen bottles of water to use for cooling off or to thaw and drink if needed. Make sure everyone, including pets, stays hydrated.

Get help: If your vehicle breaks down in extreme heat, call for assistance right away to reduce wait time, and run the AC. If the AC isn’t working, roll down all windows.

Wait safely: If the temperature inside your vehicle becomes too hot, everyone, including pets, should exit carefully and seek out or create a shaded area as far away from the travel lanes as possible. Be careful walking on the road surface, which can be hot enough to burn skin. Keep your shoes on and try to keep your pets’ paws off the pavement. If you are stopped along the highway, raise the front hood and turn on hazard lights. Please keep in mind that parking in tall brush can start a fire. 

Check your vehicle: You can help avoid breakdowns and blowouts by making sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. Check your air conditioner and coolant levels, top off any vital engine fluids and make sure your battery is up to par. Check your tire pressure, as the combination of under inflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout.

MORE: 

—-

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)
• az511.com

Weather ForecastPhoenixNews