Combating the Heat Dome - Extreme Heat in the United States
The dangerous 'heat dome' is threatening large parts of the country, pushing temperatures well over 90 degrees.
How to Avoid Overheating in Arizona
Arizona’s June Heat Surge 🌵🔥
This week, Arizona is enduring some of its fiercest heat of the year. A National Weather Service Extreme (formerly “Excessive”) Heat Warning covered Maricopa and Pima counties through June, 2025, with daytime highs expected to reach 115–116°F, nearly tying historical records kjzz.org. The heat threat extends across Arizona under a strong high-pressure ridge pushing temperatures to dangerous levels .
Why This Heat Warning Matters
An Extreme Heat Warning signals that:
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The heat index is expected to hit 105°F+ for several hours on consecutive days, or surpass 115°F at any time en.wikipedia.org+10en.wikipedia.org+10maricopa.gov+10.
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This greatly elevates the risk of heat-related illnesses—heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration—when the body can't cool itself effectively.
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Nighttime relief will be minimal, with overnight lows in the 80s, hindering recovery washingtonpost.com.
Preventing Heat Exhaustion: Hydration & Mist Cooling
💧 Stay Properly Hydrated
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Daily goal: Drink at least 64 oz (about 2 Liters) of water, or more with outdoor activity.
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Add electrolyte replacements like sports drinks when sweating heavily.
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Pay special attention to children, seniors, and outdoor workers, who dehydrate faster.
🌬️ Use Mist Cooling Wisely
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Portable mist fans or spray bottles can provide instant relief by lowering skin temperature.
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Set up fine-mist systems on porches/patios—science shows evaporation cools air and skin efficiently.
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Combine mist with airflow (fans) to replicate natural shade cooling—up to a 10°F drop in perceived temperature.
Best Practices in Triple‑Digit Weather
| Strategy | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Schedule activities | Limit outside exposure to early morning or after sunset—avoid peak 10 a–4 p. |
| Seek shade/AC | Indoors or thunder-shaded areas can reduce core stress significantly. |
| Light clothing | Breathable, light-colored fabrics aid evaporation and UV protection. |
| Check on others | Neighbors and sheltered individuals may silently suffer dehydration. |
| Know the signs | Dizziness, weakness, cool/pale skin → heat exhaustion. Seizure/fever → heat stroke—call 911. |
Community Reminders & Resources
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Maricopa County alerted residents on June 13 that heat safety through June 20th was essential en.wikipedia.org+4maricopa.gov+4washingtonpost.com+4en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1.
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Cities encourage using cooling centers and public water fountains—especially important for those without reliable AC.
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Local media dubbed Thursday, June 19, a “First Alert Day” as Phoenix soared to 116°F kjzz.org+3azfamily.com+3azfamily.com+3.
Final Takeaway
Arizona’s extreme heat isn't just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. Heat exhaustion can strike fast, but you have control:
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Hydrate continually, not just when thirsty.
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Cool with mist and shade—portable misters are game changers.
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Avoid peak heat hours, monitor vulnerable loved ones.
Combining these steps gives your body and your community the best fighting chance to stay safe. Share this blog with family, neighbors, and neighbors—heat safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Stay cool, stay safe, and may your summer be well-shaded and well-misted.
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