Phoenix sets new heat record with above 37.8 °C (100 °F) for 100 days, Arizona

On September 3, 2024, Phoenix shattered its previous heat record after enduring 100 consecutive days of temperatures above 37.8 °C (100 °F). The relentless heat, which began on May 27, continues to wreak havoc across the region, contributing to a surge in heat-related deaths and posing significant risks to vulnerable populations.

Phoenix, Arizona, is enduring an extraordinary summer of relentless heat. On September 3, the city recorded its 100^th consecutive day of temperatures reaching at least 37.8 °C (100 °F), far surpassing the previous record of 76 days set in 1993, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

“That is definitely an eye-catching number,” remarked NWS meteorologist Sean Benedict. The streak began on May 27 when temperatures hit 38.9 °C (102 °F) and has continued uninterrupted ever since.

The intense heat has shown no signs of abating. “Unfortunately, there’s no end in sight,” weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman said. Highs could exceed 43.3 °C (110 °F) well into next week. This summer has already set several records, including 37 nights where temperatures did not drop below 32.2 °C (90 °F) and 54 days with temperatures reaching 43.3 °C (110 °F), just one day short of breaking the previous record set last year.

NWS Phoenix has issued an excessive heat warning for the region till the end of this this week forecasting temperatures 10 degrees above the norm.

Public health concerns are mounting in Arizona, particularly in Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located.

As of August 24, there have been 150 confirmed heat-related deaths, with another 443 under investigation. Last year, 645 people died from heat-related causes in the county. “Heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer in the U.S.,” Erdman noted, emphasizing the dangers posed by high nighttime temperatures, which prevent the body from cooling down.

The impact of the heat has been particularly severe on the homeless population. Nearly half of last year’s heat-related deaths were among homeless individuals. Non-profit organizations like Circle the City have implemented programs such as IV rehydration to assist those most at risk.

The heatwave is not confined to Arizona. Across the western U.S., temperatures have soared, prompting excessive heat warnings in cities like Las Vegas, Nevada, and Palm Springs, California. In Nevada’s Clark County, which includes Las Vegas, 181 heat-related deaths have been confirmed this year, with officials expecting the number to rise as investigations continue.

In addition to the heat, the western U.S. is facing increased wildfire risks. In California, red flag warnings have been issued, and a fire near Lake Tahoe forced the evacuation of more than 500 residents. Cooling centers have been set up across Los Angeles County, where officials have urged residents to check on vulnerable neighbors. “Hot days aren’t just uncomfortable — they can be dangerous,” said LA County Health Officer Muntu Davis.

For outdoor workers, the prolonged heat is particularly challenging. Ramiro Lopez, a landscaper in suburban Phoenix, shared his experience of coping with the extreme temperature. “I’ve learned to drink lots of sports drinks and make sure I’m done by 13:00,” Lopez said. “Otherwise, it’s just too much.”

References:

¹ Phoenix Hits 100 Degrees For 100 Days Straight, Crushing Previous Heat Record – The Weather Channel– September 4, 2024

² Phoenix hits 100 degrees Fahrenheit for a record 100th straight day as heat scorches western U.S. – CBS – September 3, 2024

³ Phoenix weathers mother of all heat waves: 100 straight days of 100-plus degrees – AP -September 3, 2024

Rishav Kothari

I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.

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