ABC15: Heat is the number one weather-related killer, not just in Arizona but across the nation. According to the National Weather Service, heat kills more people than tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and lightning combined.
Last month for Heat Awareness Week, ABC15 joined organizations from across the state as they highlighted the importance of heat safety and awareness for Arizonans. Watch that video in the player below:
Hydration is a crucial component of keeping yourself healthy as temperatures soar. The National Weather Service recommends that you drink at least 32 ounces of water every hour.
Both Maricopa and Pinal counties have heat relief stations where anyone can get bottled water and seek refuge from the heat. For a map of locations, click here.
You can find ABC15’s Most Accurate Forecast here.
Excessive Heat Watches are issued when conditions are favorable for excessive heat within two to seven days. These watches are meant to give you a heads-up that dangerously hot temperatures are on the way and you should consider adjusting your outdoor plans. You’ll want to plan your schedule so that you’re getting outdoor activities done early in the morning when it’s cooler. Also, make sure that you have plenty of water ready to go.
Excessive Heat Warnings are issued when an excessive heat event is occurring or is imminent. These warnings indicate that temperatures will soar to levels that could be deadly.
The National Weather Service also issues Heat Advisories within 12 hours of the start of extremely dangerous heat conditions.
You must be taking precautions to avoid heat illness throughout our hot summer months, especially when any of these alerts are issued.
Remember to limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Bring your pets inside and make sure they have plenty of water, too. Check on your elderly friends and neighbors to make sure they’re managing to stay cool.
Also, remember to always check the backseat before walking away from your vehicle. Never leave kids or pets behind as temperatures inside the vehicle could be nearly 20 degrees hotter than outside within just 10 minutes.
You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat illness.