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The Excessive Heat Warning extends to Friday, July 21, 2023 issued by the National Weather Service (Phoenix, AZ Forecast Office).

HeatRisk categories for this week:

Monday, July 17 – Category 2 (Orange)

Moderate - This level of heat affects most individuals sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Impacts possible in some health systems and in heat-sensitive industries.

• Heat of this type is tolerated by many; however there is a moderate risk for members of heat-sensitive groups to experience negative heat-related health effects, including heat illness
• Some risk for the general population who are exposed to the sun for longer periods of time.
• For those without air conditioning, living spaces can become uncomfortable during the afternoon and evening, but fans and leaving windows open at night will help.

Tuesday, July 18 – Category 3 (RED)

Major - This level of heat affects anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Impacts likely in some health systems, heat-sensitive industries and infrastructure.

• Heat of this type represents a major Risk to all individuals who are 1) exposed to the sun and active or 2) are in a heat-sensitive group.
• Dangerous to anyone without proper hydration or adequate cooling
• For those without air conditioning, living spaces can become deadly during the afternoon and evening. Fans and open windows will not be as effective.
• Poor air quality is possible.
• Power interruptions may occur as electrical demands increase.

Wednesday, July 19 to Friday, July 21 – Category 4 (Magenta)

Extreme - This level of rare and/or long-duration extreme heat with little to no overnight relief affects anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Impacts likely in most health systems, heat-sensitive industries and infrastructure.

• This is a rare level of heat leading to an Extreme Risk for the entire population.
• Very dangerous to anyone without proper hydration or adequate cooling.
• This is a multi-day excessive heat event. A prolonged period of heat is dangerous for everyone not prepared.
• Poor air quality is likely.
• Power outages are increasingly likely as electrical demands may reach critical levels.

Heat Sensitive Groups

• Primarily heat sensitive or vulnerable groups, especially those without effective cooling or hydration, or those not acclimated to the level of
• The elderly and the very young.
• Those on certain medications and/or those with preexisting conditions which make them more sensitive to heat (your doctor can let you know if this is you).
• Those working outdoors -- especially new workers, temporary workers, or those returning to work after a week or more off.
• Those exercising or doing strenuous activities outdoors during the heat of the day - especially those not used to the level of heat expected, those who are not drinking enough fluids, or those new to that type of activity.
• Those without a reliable source of cooling and/or hydration.
• Those not acclimated to the level of heat expected - especially those who are new to a much warmer climate.

For those at risk, the following actions can be taken:

• Stay hydration.
• Reduce time spent outdoors or stay in the shade when the sun is strongest or Strongly consider canceling outdoor activities.
• Stay in a cool place during the heat of the day.
• Dress for the heat - lightweight and light-colored clothing.
• Stay in a cool place, including overnight.
• If you have access to air conditioning, use it, or find a location that does. Even a few hours in a cool location can lower risk. Fans will not be adequate.
• Check on your neighbors.