Another stretch of dangerous desert heat is headed for Buckeye, with the National Weather Service issuing an Extreme Heat Warning from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 8 p.m. Thursday for Buckeye and much of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Afternoon high temperatures are expected to climb between 110 and 115 degrees, creating what forecasters classify as a Major Heat Risk. Conditions like these can quickly become dangerous for anyone spending extended time outdoors, especially construction workers, landscapers, athletes, older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions.
While Buckeye residents are no strangers to summer heat, meteorologists say this event is hot enough to require extra precautions. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion and, if left untreated, may progress to life-threatening heat stroke.
For those who must be outside, experts recommend shifting strenuous activities to the early morning or evening hours whenever possible. Wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing, drinking water frequently and taking regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Employers are also encouraged to provide frequent cooling breaks for outdoor workers. Anyone showing signs of heat illness should be moved to a cool location immediately. If symptoms include confusion, loss of consciousness or a body temperature above 103 degrees, call 911 immediately, as heat stroke is a medical emergency.
The City of Buckeye has a number of street improvement projects continues regardless of the heat, although most of those working on projects around the city are contracted through other companies
"For work performed by City employees, the city follows comprehensive heat safety practices designed to reduce the risk of heat-related illness," said John O’Halloran, director of communications for the City of Buckeye. "City crews have access to drinking water and electrolyte replacement beverages, are encouraged to take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and supervisors monitor weather conditions and employee well-being throughout the day.
O’Halloran said work schedules and assignments "may be adjusted to reduce exposure during the hottest parts of the day, and employees are told to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and respond quickly if concerns arise."
Staying safe during the heat
Residents can help protect themselves and their families by following a few simple precautions:
- Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles, even for a few minutes.
- Check on elderly neighbors, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.
- Make sure pets always have access to fresh water and shade.
Cooling Centers
- Buckeye Public Library, Coyote Branch, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Buckeye, 623-349-6300
- Buckeye Public Library, Downtown Branch, 310 N. 6th St., Buckeye, 623-349-6300
Hydration Stations
- Human Services, 110 E. Irwin Ave., Buckeye 623-349-6619
- Buckeye Family Resource Center, 210 S. 6th St., Buckeye, 623-925-3911
- Senior Center, 201 E. Centre Ave., Buckeye, 623-349-6600
- All Faith Community Services Food Bank, 214 S. 5th St., Buckeye, 623-386-3513
Maricopa County also offers free resources during periods of extreme heat, including cooling centers, hydration stations and transportation assistance. Residents can call 211 to locate the nearest services if needed.
With monsoon season beginning to ramp up, Buckeye residents are reminded that even if thunderstorms develop later in the week, temperatures may remain dangerously hot beforehand.
As the summer continues, officials encourage everyone to take the heat seriously, plan ahead and make safety a priority during one of the hottest stretches of the season.
