The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings for large parts of Arizona and Southern California, effective from Tuesday, July 7, 2026, through Thursday, July 9, 2026.
Regional temperatures are forecast to climb as high as 117 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Meteorologists are tracking dangerous conditions expanding westward across Maricopa, Pima, Yuma, La Paz, and Riverside counties. The warnings follow a clearing of cloud coverage from the holiday weekend.
Heat-Related Deaths on the Rise
Maricopa County health records show 16 confirmed heat deaths so far in 2026, with 192 more under investigation.
This marks an increase compared to the same period last year.
In 2025, heat-related causes claimed 430 lives in the Valley. Free cooling center transportation remains available in Maricopa County via the 211 helpline.
The extreme heat warning for the Phoenix area spans Tuesday through Thursday, with projected highs peaking at 116 degrees.
“The heat’s obviously going to be worst during the daylight hours.
So if you can, try to take advantage of the early morning and late evening time frame if you are gonna do some outdoor activities,” said Sean Benedict, a National Weather Service meteorologist.
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The weather service warns that excessive heat events cause a significant spike in heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and potentially fatal heat strokes if left untreated.
High temperatures in regions like the Chuckwalla Mountains, Imperial Valley, and Palo Verde Valley are expected to reach between 109 and 117 degrees.
The NWS Phoenix AZ stated, “Dangerously hot conditions. Afternoon temperatures of 109 to 117 degrees expected.
Major Heat Risk.”
Residents are advised to consume 3 to 4 cups of water every hour to replenish fluids.
They should also limit dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine and wear sun-protective, breathable clothing.
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Emergency alerts will automatically broadcast to enabled mobile phones across Southern California in the event of catastrophic or considerable weather hazards.
