Excessive heat watch issued for Yuma area over weekend
Just as area residents were getting used to cooler weather this week, higher temperatures will be creeping around the corner beginning on Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, prolonged period of widespread moderate heat risk will start Saturday, peaking Sunday with localized high heat risk. The agency has placed an Excessive Heat Watch effective Sunday for Southwest Ariz., southeast Calif. and south-central Ariz.
Temperatures are expected to be between 105-107 degrees across much of the lower deserts that day. Meteorologist with the NWS in Phoenix Larry Hopper said on Thursday that the weather the region is experiencing is due to an upper level disturbance.
“We had a really strong upper level disturbance that moved right over the region,” he said. “That really pulled us down quite a bit because that center of that low pressure system was over us yesterday (and) gave us some very nice weather.”
Hopper said that Yuma may break a record high for Sunday. The highest temperature on record here for May 6 occurred in 1963 at 107 degrees.
Additionally, the NWS in Phoenix warns that hot temperatures of 105 or above will significantly increase potential for heat-related illness. Those who are most at risk include those working or being active outdoors during the daytime or those without access to adequate air conditioning.
The NWS advises the public to stay hydrated, to never leave pets or kids unattended in cars, to avoid sugar, alcohol and caffeine. When outdoors, the agency suggests wearing light colored clothing with a wide-brimmed hat to kept the head and body cooler.
Additionally, it is advisable to take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
Early symptoms of heat-related illness include headache, thirst, and muscle cramps. The NWS lists serious symptoms as weakness, skin that is cool to the touch, fast but weak pulse, nausea, and fainting.
Severe symptoms, the agency reports, include hot and red dry skin, fast and strong pulse, sweating that has stopped, and unconsciousness. The NWS warns that untreated heat illness can lead to fatal heat stroke.
The NWS reports that highs of 100-104 will persist through the majority of next week and the heat risk is expected to last at least until next Thursday.
Places open to the public with air conditioning include libraries, community centers, government buildings and special refuge stations.
Additionally, as part of the Yuma Heat Relief program, the Crossroads Mission serves as a cooling site yearround. Crossroads Mission Address: 944 S. Arizona Ave. Telephone: 928-783-9362 Water Site and Cooling Site are Open: All Year
Water Site and Cooling Site Hours: Open 24 hours Open: All major holidays