Excessive Heat — Gila River Valley, Arizona

2021-08-25 to 2021-08-29 · Gila River Valley, Arizona

Wider weather episode

A strong subtropical ridge over the Southern Plains expanded westward into the Desert Southwest near the end of August, leading to excessive heat conditions across the region. Temperatures in Phoenix during this time climbed well above normal, peaking at 112 degrees on the 26th and 27th. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 13 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1072089. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.