Arizona weather forecast: Record-breaking heat hits Phoenix

PHOENIX – Phoenix experienced record-breaking heat on Friday as a spring warm-up began to push temperatures well above historical averages across Arizona.

The Valley reached a high of 93 degrees, breaking the previous record of 92 degrees. That record was most recently tied in 2017, but the original mark dates back to the 1970s.

We’re supposed to be in the 70s. These are historical temperature readings that have not been seen in a very long time.

As of Friday afternoon, Phoenix sat at 92 degrees while surrounding areas like Scottsdale and Ahwatukee also hit the 90s. Glendale and Goodyear reached 91 degrees. Elsewhere in the state, Lake Havasu hit 93 degrees, while the high country remained cooler, with Flagstaff recording a high of 66 degrees.

Overnight lows in the Valley are expected to dip into the 60s, with Gila Bend sitting at 60 degrees. Flagstaff will see a much cooler 37 degrees overnight.

The weekend:

Expect more dry, sunny conditions. While Saturday and Sunday may not reach record-breaking levels, there is a possibility that Sunday’s high could tie a record. Residents heading outdoors for Spring Training should prepare for wind gusts up to 19 mph on Saturday afternoon and evening.

Next week:

A significant shift in the weather pattern is expected to arrive early next week. A second ridge of high pressure is moving toward the Desert Southwest, which will facilitate a long stretch of triple-digit temperatures.

The 10-day forecast shows the Valley holding in the low 90s through Monday. However, starting Tuesday, an intense heat period begins with back-to-back days of 100-degree temperatures and overnight lows in the 70s.

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)
• az511.com

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