Phoenix, Arizona, has been facing a series of extreme weather events, with record-breaking temperatures and prolonged heatwaves affecting the region. Despite an overnight storm preventing the city from setting a new record for low temperatures, Phoenix continues to grapple with excessive daytime heat.
The National Weather Service reported that following a monsoon rainstorm, the overnight low on Sunday was 79 degrees Fahrenheit (32.2 Celsius). This came after a night where the temperature only dropped to 93 degrees (33.8 C), tying the city's previous record of 35 consecutive overnight lows in the 90s.
Meteorologists predict that Phoenix is likely to surpass this record soon, with the current streak of 90-degree days expected to continue. The city experienced 84 consecutive days of temperatures at or above 100 degrees (37.7 C), surpassing the previous record of 76 days set in 1993.
While Phoenix braces for scorching temperatures reaching up to 114 degrees, the city faces challenges due to the urban heat island effect. Materials like concrete and asphalt retain heat, exacerbating the already high temperatures, particularly in downtown areas.
Meanwhile, neighboring regions are also feeling the impact of the heatwave. Las Vegas saw a brief respite with temperatures dropping to 81 degrees (27.2 C) following monsoon rains, while New Mexico anticipates triple-digit temperatures in Albuquerque and along the U.S.-Mexico border.
The relentless heatwave has taken a toll on public health, with a rising number of heat-related deaths reported in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Maricopa County alone confirmed 96 heat-related deaths in 2024, with additional cases under investigation. Similarly, Pima County and Clark County have reported heat-related fatalities, highlighting the severity of the situation.
As the Southwest grapples with the consequences of prolonged heatwaves, officials urge residents to take precautions to stay safe and cool during this challenging period.
