The U.S. Southwest has been grappling with a historic heat wave throughout July, subjecting residents to scorching temperatures and causing surfaces like brick to bake. However, relief is finally in sight as late monsoon rains arrive, offering hope for a temporary reprieve from the intense heat.
Forecasters predict that by Monday, the metro Phoenix area will experience high temperatures falling below 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 degrees Celsius) for the first time in a month.
On Saturday, however, Phoenix witnessed the temperature soaring past 110 F for the 30th consecutive day, marking a new record. Previously, the longest stretch of 110 F or above temperatures was 18 days in 1974.
The anticipated monsoon thunderstorms on Sunday offer a chance of cooling but come with caution of potential damaging winds, blowing dust, and the risk of flash flooding. Runoff from these sudden rains on parched surfaces can rapidly fill otherwise dry washes.
Earlier this week, the overnight low at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport finally dipped below 90 F (32.2 C) after 16 days, providing residents with some relief from the oppressive heat during the nighttime.
Other regions in the Southwest are also expected to experience a drop in temperatures. Las Vegas, Albuquerque, and even Death Valley, California, are predicted to see lower temperatures, with Death Valley’s expected high of 122 F (50 C) on Saturday decreasing to 113 F (45 C) by Tuesday, accompanied by a slight chance of rain.
However, the extreme heat has brought its share of challenges. Santa Barbara County is facing gusty, late-afternoon winds that pose an elevated risk of fire weather, while Riverside County deals with evacuations due to a wildfire in the community of Aguanga.
The impact of the heat isn’t limited to humans; even animals are affected. A bear seeking relief was discovered cooling off in a Jacuzzi behind a home in Burbank, California.
The abatement in Southwest heat began with the arrival of monsoon storms on Wednesday night, providing some respite to the sweltering conditions. However, these extreme temperatures and weather patterns are part of a larger pattern of global warming, with July being predicted to be the hottest month globally on record.
The extreme heat poses risks for outdoor activities and can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, individuals with health issues, and those without access to air conditioning.
The high temperatures have resulted in numerous heat-associated deaths in Maricopa County, Arizona, with 25 confirmed and 249 under investigation. Authorities urge residents to take precautions and protect themselves during this challenging weather. While some cooling is anticipated next week, temperatures are likely to remain considerably high, warranting continued vigilance.
Source: With Agencies