News Summary
Phoenix has set a new record high temperature of 116 degrees Fahrenheit, surpassing the previous record set in 1979. The extreme heat raised public safety concerns, prompting hiking trail restrictions. Though the heat warning is expected to expire soon, additional high temperatures are forecasted. Residents are reminded to stay hydrated and adjust outdoor plans accordingly as the Valley braves this intense heat wave.
Phoenix set a new record high temperature of 116 degrees Fahrenheit on June 30, 2025, at Sky Harbor International Airport, surpassing the previous record of 115 degrees established in 1979 and matched in 2013. The extreme heat, recorded around 3 p.m., has intensified concerns about public safety as an extreme heat warning was activated for the Valley the previous day, forcing residents and outdoor enthusiasts to adjust their plans accordingly.
Despite this record-breaking heat on June 30, it is important to note that the hottest day of the year so far remains June 19, which reached 117 degrees. The extreme temperatures prompted safety officials to restrict hiking trails in the region from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during days with an active extreme heat warning, emphasizing the dangers posed by dehydration and heat exhaustion in such scorching conditions.
The heat warning is anticipated to expire by the evening of July 1, 2025. However, as the Valley braces for the effects of this heat wave, forecasts reveal a continuing trend of high temperatures, with July 1 projected to reach 114 degrees, just shy of the July 1 record set in 1990. The following week may provide some relief, with temperatures expected to drop into the lower 100s by July 4.
The National Weather Service indicates that the extreme heat conditions could also correlate with monsoon activity, which is projected to bring rainfall chances of 15% to 30% on the evenings of July 1 and July 2. This potential for storm activity could mitigate the ongoing heat but may also lead to local dust storms, particularly from the southeast areas of the Valley as the weather shifts.
In a recent incident reflecting the seriousness of the heat, a family of 11 hikers required rescue from a closed trail on South Mountain on June 28 due to heat exhaustion. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety measures during extreme weather conditions, including avoiding strenuous outdoor activities at peak heat times.
Despite the impending storms, the overall trend for the Valley suggests that significant cooling will follow this heat wave, offering residents and visitors much-needed relief during the upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend. As temperatures settle and conditions improve, local officials remind the public to remain cautious about heat-related risks as well as the potential for sudden weather changes.
Preparedness measures are advised for families and individuals living in the Phoenix area, especially those engaging in outdoor activities. It is essential to stay hydrated, routinely check weather updates, and remain indoors during extreme heat advisories to ensure safety and health in the prolonged heat conditions.
The situation in Phoenix serves as a reminder of the impact of rising temperatures and ongoing climate conditions, and while the residents are set to experience some cooler days ahead, the effects of extreme heat events remain a crucial concern for public health and safety.
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Additional Resources
- AZ Central
- KTAR News
- AZ Family
- The New York Times
- ABC 15 Arizona
- Wikipedia: Phoenix, Arizona
- Google Search: Phoenix weather news
- Google Scholar: Phoenix heatwave
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Phoenix
- Google News: Phoenix weather
