What Is An Extreme Heat Warning And What Does It Mean For You

One thing that always catches me off guard is the unfathomable difference between the heat in Maricopa County and the relative cool of Cochise County.

In Cochise County, summer days can still be hot, but it’s not suck-the-breath-from-your-body hot.

silhouette of mountains during sunset — Photo by Eelco Böhtlingk on Unsplash

In Phoenix, however, stepping outside into 110-degree heat can feel like opening the door to a giant oven. The blast of hot, convection-oven air is immediate, and even a short walk across a parking lot can be uncomfortable and exhausting.

Oh, and fun fact: don’t run. As I found out, that actually makes things worse.

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What Is An Extreme Heat Warning?

An Extreme Heat Warning, the National Weather Service explains, is issued when dangerously high temperatures are expected and create a significant risk of heat-related illness.

In Arizona, these warnings typically happen during prolonged periods of triple-digit temperatures. Navigating extreme heat is challenging, and if you spend too much time in the heat, your body might not be able to cool down properly. This can increase your risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Young children, older adults, outdoor workers, and people with chronic medical conditions are the most vulnerable.

Also, anyone without access to air conditioning faces the highest risk. Even healthy individuals can get sick if they spend too much time outdoors without proper precautions.

Silhouette of a tired baseball player with bat at sunset — Photo by Maxim Tolchinskiy on Unsplash

What Should You Do During An Extreme Heat Warning?

Drink water frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. By the time you do feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated, so continuous fluid intake is your best bet.
Stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. If you’re outside for a prolonged period of time, rest in the shade as much as you can.
Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Early morning and evenings around sunset are the best times to be outdoors.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Believe it or not, light, long sleeves will help protect your skin from sunburn.
Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and friends. Heat can cause illness quickly, so don’t wait.
Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle. The interior of a vehicle heats up fast.
Take frequent breaks if you have to work outside.
The Mayo Clinic says it’s important to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

a man sitting on a step with his head in his hands — Photo by Ben Hershey on Unsplash

Resources For Unhoused People

The heat is now new in our state. That’s why Arizona communities often open cooling centers during extreme heat events.

Libraries, community centers, public schools, faith-based organizations, and other designated places often provide air-conditioned spaces, drinking water, rest areas, and connections to social services.

Cities like Tucson and towns throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area also distribute water and offer information through local outreach organizations and emergency management programs.

Extreme Heat Is More Than An Inconvenience

I spent the weekend in Phoenix, and I was reminded how shockingly hot it is there; so much warmer than I’m used to in Cochise County.

The difference is dramatic. Extreme heat is not just uncomfortable; it can quickly become dangerous. Whatever you do, pay attention to heat warnings, stay hydrated, and find help when you need it. These little things can make all the difference during Arizona's hottest days.