Excessive Heat — Northwest Valley, Arizona

2018-08-19 to 2018-08-26 · Northwest Valley, Arizona

Event narrative

Hot temperatures during the latter half of August were enough to result in additional fatalities for the month. Phoenix Sky Harbor airport recorded temperatures reaching 108 degrees on August 19th and 20th, which is above seasonal normal values. According to Maricopa County Department of Public Health, there were 18 heat-associated (5 direct and 13 indirect) during this time. Unfortunately, the Maricopa County Department of Health was unable to provide details such as age, gender or circumstances regarding the deaths.

Wider weather episode

Hot temperatures during the latter half of August 2018 led to additional fatalities for the month. High pressure aloft along with plentiful sunshine allowed for temperatures to reach dangerous levels. Phoenix Sky Harbor airport recorded temperatures getting up to 108 degrees on a couple of instances during this time. The excessive heat combined with increased humidity was sufficient to result in a number of fatalities across the greater Phoenix area. According to Maricopa County Department of Public Health, there were 18 heat-associated deaths that occurred during this time. Without adequate precautions, highs in the triple digits, or even the 90s, are sufficient to cause serious health problems. As reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, the data are aggregated and unfortunately, specifics such as age, gender, location of fatality, and circumstances cannot be obtained.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 863314. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.