Heat — Upper Santa Cruz River and Altar Valleys, Arizona

2024-09-07 · Upper Santa Cruz River and Altar Valleys, Arizona

Event narrative

Hot temperatures about 3 to 5 degrees above normal were experienced in Nogales on September 7, causing the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. The Nogales International Airport topped out at 93 degrees on September 7. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was contributing factor in the death in one individual.

Wider weather episode

Hot temperatures 8 to 10 degrees above normal were experienced across much of southeast Arizona September 5-8. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for six individuals, two in Tucson, two in Sells, one in Nogales, and one in Kuakatch. Additionally, the Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was a contributing factor in the cause of death for one other individual in Tucson.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1218662. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.