Heat — Central Phoenix, Arizona

2024-06-22 · Central Phoenix, Arizona

Event narrative

Four fatalities (1 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

A retrograding strong ridge of high pressure resulted in temperatures climbing well above normal across the Phoenix area, while a trough was situated to the west along the West Coast. The hottest days in Phoenix during this time occurred on the 20th and 21st as highs topped out at 115 degrees and 117 degrees, respectively. The 117 degree high on the 21st tied the record high for the date. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 18 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1297522. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.