NWS Details Health Risks Ahead of Extreme Heat Watch in Southern Arizona
The National Weather Service in Tucson warned that heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events.
2 reports on this incident · first at Aug 20, 2026, 7:12 a.m. ET
Earlier reports
Aug 20, 2026, 7:12 a.m. ETFirst report
NWS Issues Extreme Heat Watch for Parts of Southern Arizona
Official records from the National Weather Service in Tucson, Arizona, show an Extreme Heat Watch has been issued across six zones as a developing situation unfolds on August 17, 2026. The watch begins at 10:00 AM on Monday, August 17, 2026, and expires at 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
According to official records, the watch covers South Central Pinal County, Southeast Pinal County, Tohono O'odham Nation, Tucson Metro Area, Upper Gila River Valley, and Western Pima County. Specific locations listed under the watch include Safford, Green Valley, Mammoth, Tucson, Marana, Oracle, Vail, Ajo, Picacho Peak State Park, Clifton, Sells, and Organ Pipe Cactus N.M.
The official record notes that dangerously hot conditions with temperatures up to 105 to 108 are expected, alongside Major to Extreme HeatRisk, and heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events. Recommended precautions include rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening, wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and drinking plenty of water. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments during outdoor work. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location, and official guidance highlights that heat stroke is an emergency requiring a call to 9 1 1.
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Revision history
- Version 120 Aug 2026, 11:23current
First published.
- Version 120 Aug 2026, 11:12current
First published.
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