Buckeye braces for 118-degree heat as nighttime relief disappears
Buckeye residents should prepare for another stretch of dangerous summer heat, with temperatures expected to approach 120 degrees by the weekend.
According to AccuWeather’s Buckeye forecast, the temperature could reach 113 degrees Thursday, 116 degrees Friday, and 118 degrees Saturday. Meanwhile, overnight lows could remain near 89 degrees.
Although temperatures should begin falling Sunday, Buckeye will likely remain above 110 degrees. The forecast calls for a high of 112 degrees Sunday, followed by 110 degrees Monday and Tuesday.
Warm nights increase health risks
The extreme daytime temperatures pose a danger. However, unusually warm nights can also create serious health concerns because the body receives little time to recover.
Research from the University of Arizona’s Climate Assessment for the Southwest found that several consecutive nights of high temperatures can increase the danger for people without dependable access to air conditioning. Older adults, young children, outdoor workers, people with medical conditions, and those who live alone face greater risks.
In addition, concrete, asphalt, buildings, and other developed surfaces absorb heat during the day and release it slowly after sunset. As a result, developed areas can remain considerably warmer than surrounding undeveloped land overnight.
Arizona’s summers are becoming hotter, longer, and increasingly dangerous, according to a recent Fountain Hills Times report. Scientists attribute the trend to a combination of broader climate changes and the urban heat island effect.
Residents urged to take precautions
Residents should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, generally between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Those who must work outside should take frequent breaks, drink water regularly, and spend time in air-conditioned areas whenever possible.
Additionally, residents should never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles. Interior temperatures can become deadly within minutes, even when a vehicle is parked in the shade.
People should also check on older relatives, neighbors, and anyone who may have trouble keeping their home cool.
Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. Heat stroke may cause confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or extremely high body temperature. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and anyone experiencing those symptoms needs immediate help.
