You Won’t Believe How Hot It’s About to Get in Pima County- Stay Safe!

Pima County residents, get ready for an unseasonably intense heatwave that could bring record-breaking temperatures in the coming days. Forecasters are warning that this could be one of the hottest late-March spells on record, with highs expected to soar into the upper 90s. If you’re planning to be outside, you might want to think twice.

Sunday’s Warm-Up – The Calm Before the Heatstorm

The weekend will start warm but manageable. Sunday’s forecast calls for partly sunny skies with a high near 84°F (29°C). As the sun sets, temperatures will cool down to around 54°F (12°C), bringing a much-needed break before things take a turn for the extreme.

Monday and Tuesday: The Heat Cranks Up

By Monday, Pima County will be flirting with record heat. Temperatures are forecasted to hit a scorching 90°F (32°C), just a few degrees shy of the record of 93°F set back in 1896. But the real heatwave begins Tuesday, when temperatures could hit an unbelievable 96°F (36°C), breaking that same 128-year-old record. Expect intense sunshine, dry conditions, and a serious risk of heat exhaustion for those spending time outdoors.

Wednesday: Still Sizzling, But a Slight Dip

Even after Tuesday’s peak, there won’t be much relief. Wednesday will still see temperatures soaring to 91°F (33°C), with mostly cloudy skies offering little protection from the intense heat. The evening will be slightly cooler, dipping to 58°F (14°C), but it will still be significantly warmer than usual for this time of year.

How to Stay Safe in the Heatwave

With such extreme temperatures on the horizon, it’s crucial to take precautions. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen quickly in extreme heat.

• Avoid Peak Sun Hours: If possible, stay indoors between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun is at its strongest. If you must go out, try to stick to shaded areas.

• Dress Smart: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat instead of absorbing it. Don’t forget sunscreen!

• Watch Out for Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea, and headaches. If you or someone around you starts experiencing these, get to a cool place immediately.

• Never Leave Kids or Pets in Cars: The inside of a vehicle can heat up to lethal temperatures in just minutes, even if it doesn’t seem that hot outside.

Stay Alert & Stay Cool!

This heatwave is no joke, and it’s coming fast. If you live in Pima County, make sure you’re prepared, stay hydrated, and take heat safety seriously. Keep an eye on weather updates throughout the week, as conditions could change. Stay safe out there, Arizona!