PHOENIX — We are in the thick of the hottest days of 2021 in Arizona so far!
It was a slow start to the extreme heat so far compared to last year's record-setting summer, but now temperatures are skyrocketing.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
High pressure has moved in and is parking itself over Arizona, sending temperatures soaring.
RELATED: What can you do to better acclimate to the heat and sun?
We are now tracking our first week with temperatures at 110 degrees or more. In fact, temperatures have gone as high as 118 degrees in Phoenix, with highs topping 116 through the weekend.
Excessive Heat Warnings are now in effect across central, southern and western Arizona through Sunday.
Excessive Heat Warnings also extend across the lower elevations of northern Arizona through Sunday.
RECORD HIGHS IN JEOPARDY
Not only will this week be unseasonably hot, but record highs and warm lows will likely be set in Phoenix and several locations across Arizona.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Sunburn, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses can impact the human body in a matter of minutes!
So, we will be in ABC15 Weather Action Mode. That means you need to take action to keep yourself and your family safe.
Heat is the number one weather-related killer. Last year, we lost more than 300 people to heat-related deaths in the Valley.
So, be sure to take action by staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest time of the day.
HISTORICAL LOOK
On average, our first day at 110º or hotter happens around June 11th.
With the latest climate averages from 1991 to 2020, the number of 110-degree days each year has increased.
Phoenix now averages 21 days a year at 110 degrees or more. That's up from the previous 30-year average of 19 days a year and from the all-time average of 12 days a year.
