Excessive Heat Watch

EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY MORNING THROUGH SUNDAY EVENING for San Tan Valley, Arizona and surrounding areas.

The National Weather Service is reporting dangerously hot conditions are possible with afternoon temperatures ranging from 108 to 114 for San Tan Valley and surrounding areas including: Aguila Valley, Tonopah Desert, Gila Bend, Northwest Pinal County, West Pinal County and Sonoran Desert National Monument.

The heat watch is in effect from Thursday morning through Sunday evening with the hottest days expected to be Saturday and Sunday.

Temperatures this high lead to a very high heat risk which may lead to an increase in heat related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat stroke can lead to death.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

An Excessive Heat Watch means that a period of very hot temperatures, even by local standards, will occur. Actions should be taken to lessen the impact of the extreme heat.

• Stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings. 
• Drink water, more than usual, and avoid dehydrating alcoholic, sugary, or caffeinated drinks. 
• Dress for the heat - lightweight and light- colored clothing. 
• Eat small meals and eat more often. 
• Monitor those with a higher vulnerability to heat, including small children. 
• Check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly. 
• If engaging in outdoor activity, take longer and more frequent breaks and avoid the hottest parts of the day. 
• Never leave kids or pets unattended in cars.

• Early signs include thirst and muscle cramps. 
• Heat exhaustion may include: cool, moist, pale skin; headache; dizziness; weakness or exhaustion; nausea. 
• The most serious illness is heat stroke, which may include: vomiting; confusion; throbbing headache; decreased alertness or loss of consciousness; high body temperature (above 105F); hot, dry skin; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; seizures.

Heat stroke can be DEADLY. Treat as an emergency and call 9 1 1.