News Summary
Phoenix has recorded a new high temperature of 116 degrees, surpassing the previous record set in 1995. An extreme heat warning remains in effect, with more records expected. Experts attribute this wave of heat to climate change, highlighting an alarming trend of rising temperatures significantly affecting public health and agricultural productivity.
Phoenix Sets New Heat Record at 116 Degrees on August 6, 2025
Phoenix reached a record-high temperature of 116 degrees on August 6, 2025, surpassing the previous record of 114 degrees established in 1995. This new milestone was officially recorded at Sky Harbor International Airport, which is recognized by the National Weather Service as the official weather station for the city.
August 7, 2025, is forecasted to break another record, with temperatures expected to reach 117 degrees and exceed the prior mark of 112 degrees from 1905. However, despite the intense heat on August 6, it was not the hottest day of the year; that distinction remains with July 9, 2025, which recorded a temperature of 118 degrees.
Extreme Weather Conditions Persist
The normal high temperature for Phoenix in early August typically hovers around 106 degrees, indicating that current conditions are significantly above average. An extreme heat warning has been in effect for the Phoenix area since late last week and is set to expire on Friday at 8 PM. Daily temperatures in the region are projected to remain around 110 degrees through early next week.
To mitigate risks associated with the heat, certain hiking trails in Phoenix are restricted from 8 AM to 5 PM, as the combination of high daytime temperatures and low overnight lows, ranging from the mid-80s to low-90s, increases the potential for heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service has advised residents to exercise caution, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and utilize air-conditioned spaces for relief.
Causes and Consequences of the Heatwave
The prolonged heatwave is being attributed to an intense high-pressure system that is not only elevating temperatures but also inhibiting rain, which remains below 10% through the weekend. This unprecedented rise in temperatures has prompted concern from climate scientists, who indicate that Phoenix and much of the Southwest are entering a phase of extreme heat as a direct consequence of climate change.
Historical data highlights that summers in Phoenix are experiencing an alarming trend of prolonged stretches of extreme temperatures. In 2023, the city endured 31 consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 110 degrees, which strained infrastructure and power grids. Last summer, residents faced an extraordinary 113 consecutive days of temperatures above 100 degrees, emphasizing the increasing intensity and frequency of heat events.
Impact on Public Health and Resources
Extreme heat poses significant risks to public health, increases demand for energy resources, and affects tourism and agricultural productivity. Climate scientists warn that Arizona’s climate is evolving, with areas experiencing three times more instances of extreme heat compared to the 1970s. This changing climate pattern not only exacerbates drought conditions but also has implications for crops and wildlife.
As residents of Phoenix navigate this latest record-breaking heat, they are urged to remain vigilant in protecting themselves from heat-related illnesses, while officials continue to monitor the situation closely, anticipating further records may fall in the coming days.
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