News Summary
Phoenix recently recorded its hottest day of the year as temperatures reached 118 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat has led to unprecedented energy demands and health warnings for residents. The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning, highlighting the dangers of high temperatures, especially for vulnerable populations. Mayor Kate Gallego has emphasized the city’s measures to provide cooling centers and shelter for those in need as health officials report heat-related fatalities. The long-term forecasts indicate that elevated temperatures will persist, raising concerns about climate change impacts in the region.
Phoenix experienced its hottest day of the year on July 9, 2025, with temperatures soaring to a blistering 118 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature was officially logged at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport at precisely 3:45 p.m., breaking the previous record for that date of 116 degrees, which had stood since 1958 and was matched again in 2024.
As the extreme heat settled over the city, Arizona Public Service, the largest electric provider in the state, reported an unprecedented peak in energy demand. The surge in energy use directly corresponds with the extreme weather conditions, as residents turned to air conditioning to escape the heat. An extreme heat warning was issued for the metro Phoenix area, extending until 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 10.
The National Weather Service (NWS) routinely issues extreme heat warnings when dangerously high temperatures are expected or already occurring. Such warnings typically lead to heightened health risks and strain on local infrastructure. In response to these conditions, hiking trails in the Phoenix area have been restricted during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., aimed at protecting outdoor enthusiasts from the dangers associated with extreme heat.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego has highlighted the city’s proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of the heat wave. Cooling and heat respite centers have been made available for residents seeking relief from the punishing temperatures. These centers provide safe, air-conditioned places for individuals to escape the extreme heat.
According to health officials in Maricopa County, the year 2025 has already witnessed six heat-related fatalities, with an additional 225 cases currently under investigation. The ongoing extreme heat poses severe public health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. Health officials have advised the public to exercise caution, recommending that strenuous outdoor activities be avoided during this time and that people seek refuge in air-conditioned environments when possible.
The city of Phoenix is grappling with unprecedented heat conditions, with future forecasts suggesting that temperatures will remain elevated above the seasonal average for the foreseeable future. The normal high temperature for this time of year in Phoenix typically hovers around 107 degrees. The consistent rise in temperature and instances of extreme heat underline ongoing concerns regarding climate change and its implications for the region’s weather patterns over time.
As Phoenix residents cope with the current heat wave, the emphasis remains on safety and community assistance. Local agencies continue to remind individuals to stay informed about weather updates and to prioritize hydration and health during this prolonged period of high temperatures.
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Additional Resources
- AZ Family: Extreme Heat Continues
- AZ Central: Phoenix Breaks Record for Hottest August Day
- Fox 10 Phoenix: Arizona Weather Forecast
- Weather.com: Phoenix Heat Crisis
- Washington Post: Record Heat in Southwest Phoenix
- Wikipedia: Heat Wave
- Google Search: Phoenix Weather
- Google Scholar: Extreme Heat Health Impacts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Climate Change
- Google News: Phoenix Heat Wave
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
