Excessive Heat — Central Phoenix, Arizona

2023-08-16 to 2023-08-17 · Central Phoenix, Arizona

Event narrative

Eleven heat-associated fatalities (8 direct and 3 indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, with their details, such as age, gender, circumstances, and exact location unavailable.

Wider weather episode

An upper level ridge of high pressure strengthened over the Intermountain West going into the latter part of August, leading to excessive heat conditions across south-central Arizona. Afternoon high temperatures observed at Phoenix Sky Harbor climbed between 111-115 degrees during the August 15-17th timeframe. On the 16th, the high temperature of 115 degrees tied the record high for the date set back in 2020. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, there were 20 heat-associated fatalities that occurred during this event. Additionally, one heat-associated fatality occurred in La Paz County during this time.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1214052. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.