Excessive Heat in Sonoran Desert Natl Monument, Arizona

A persistent strong ridge of high pressure over the region led to well above normal temperatures for the end of July. Afternoon highs during this time exceeded 110 degrees each day in Phoenix with the 25th recording a high of 119 degrees. Record high temperatures were set on the 24-26th and the 29th. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 103 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time. Additionally, six heat-associated fatalities occurred in La Paz County and one heat-associated fatality occurred in southern Gila County during this time.