Excessive Heat — Northwest Valley, Arizona

2018-07-22 to 2018-07-31 · Northwest Valley, Arizona

Event narrative

Record breaking temperatures in the Phoenix area lead to a deadly excessive heat event during the latter half of July. Phoenix Sky Harbor recorded several days with highs reaching 115 degrees and 116 degrees during this time. According to Maricopa County Department of Public Health, there were 40 heat-associated deaths (32 direct and 8 indirect) that occurred during this event. Unfortunately, the Maricopa County Department of Health was unable to provide details such as age, gender or circumstances regarding the deaths.

Wider weather episode

Strong high pressure over the Desert Southwest allowed for temperatures to climb into record territory across the Phoenix area, resulting in deadly excessive heat conditions. Phoenix Sky Harbor airport recorded temperatures getting as high as 116 degrees during this period. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 40 heat-associated deaths occurred in the Phoenix area between July 22nd and July 31st. Without adequate precautions, highs in the triple digits, or even the 90s, are sufficient to cause serious health problems, especially to vulnerable or poorly prepared individuals such as the homeless or those without working air conditioners. Heat-associated fatality data as reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health is aggregated and unfortunately, specifics such as age, gender, and circumstances cannot be obtained.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 862278. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.