If you’re planning to step outside this weekend, you might want to think twice—because the desert heat isn’t just coming, it’s about to explode. An Extreme Heat Watch has been issued for Tucson and surrounding areas as temperatures are expected to skyrocket to a brutal 111°F between Saturday and Monday. This isn’t your average summer heat. It’s a full-on heat emergency that could be life-threatening if taken lightly.
Weather officials are sounding the alarm now because what’s coming is more than uncomfortable—it’s potentially dangerous. A high-pressure system is building over the Southwest, locking in sweltering air and driving daytime highs into record-challenging territory. Overnight lows will barely dip into the 70s, offering almost no relief, especially for those without access to air conditioning.
Why This Heatwave Is Different—and More Dangerous
This heatwave is being caused by a stubborn ridge of high pressure, sometimes called a “heat dome,” which traps hot air over one region for days. Under this dome, Tucson and surrounding counties will be baking under sun with no clouds, no wind—and no help.
Here’s what makes this heat especially alarming:
-
Daytime highs between 108°F and 111°F are expected across the Tucson metro area, the Upper Gila River Valley, and western Pima County.
-
Nighttime lows in the mid-to-upper 70s won’t be enough to cool the body down after intense daytime exposure, increasing risk for heat-related illness.
-
Prolonged exposure, especially during midday hours, can quickly escalate to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke, which can be fatal if untreated.
And it’s not just the vulnerable who are at risk. Young, healthy people working outdoors, exercising, or even walking pets can quickly overheat under these conditions.
Who’s Affected—and When?
Extreme Heat Watch in effect from Saturday morning through Monday evening.
Areas included:
-
Tucson metro
-
Tohono O’odham Nation
-
Upper Gila River Valley
-
Western Pima County
Heat will peak on Sunday and Monday, with both days forecast to hit highs between 109°F and 111°F. The threat is most intense between 11 AM and 6 PM, when the sun is strongest and UV exposure is at its peak.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe (And Keep Others Safe)
This kind of heat requires more than sunglasses and sunscreen. Here’s what every Arizonan needs to know and do:
-
Stay inside between 11 AM and 5 PM. If you don’t have to go out, don’t. Use air conditioning. Visit a cooling center if needed.
-
Drink water constantly. By the time you’re thirsty, you’re already on your way to dehydration. Skip sodas, coffee, and alcohol.
-
Dress for survival. Light-colored, breathable clothing, hats, and UV sunglasses are essential. Avoid tight or dark clothing.
-
Never leave children, pets, or anyone in a parked car. Temperatures inside can top 140°F in minutes—even with windows cracked.
-
Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke.
-
Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, nausea, headache, dizziness.
-
Heat stroke: dry skin, confusion, fainting, rapid pulse—CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.
-
-
Check on neighbors. Especially elderly folks, those without A/C, and people living alone.
Heat Snapshot: What to Expect Each Day
-
Thursday (June 12): Sunny and hot, high near 105°F. The heat is building.
-
Friday (June 13): Still sunny, dry, and dangerously hot. Highs remain around 105°F.
-
Saturday (June 14): Extreme Heat Watch begins. Expect 106–108°F. Hydration is critical.
-
Sunday (June 15): Peak heat. Temperatures could hit 110–111°F—the hottest day of the stretch.
-
Monday (June 16): Similar to Sunday, with potential highs just above 110°F again.
-
Tuesday–Wednesday: Slight relief, but still hovering above 100°F.
Final Word: Don’t Take This Heat Lightly
It’s tempting to think “It’s just Arizona—heat is normal.” But this upcoming stretch isn’t normal—it’s dangerous, even deadly for some. With temperatures hovering around 111°F, it only takes minutes of unprotected exposure to become overwhelmed.
This weekend, the smartest move is to stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay alert. Check on neighbors, cancel strenuous plans, and listen to your body.
