It’s still winter, but the Phoenix Fire Department is already responding to heat-related emergency calls.
High temperatures in Phoenix reached the 80s this weekend. Saturday’s high of 81 was 12 degrees hotter than what’s typical for that date. Sunday’s high of 85 was 16 degrees hotter than normal, breaking a record for the date.
On Saturday afternoon, the fire department had to assist a hiker down from Piestewa Peak after she became overheated and couldn’t make it back down the trail alone.
Phoenix fire Capt. Todd Keller said hikers should take heat precautions, whether they’re going out in January or July.
“That direct sunlight, whether it's 70 degrees or 100 degrees, it can sneak up on you,” Keller said. “Always bring a full bottle of water and hike with a buddy in case you need them to call 911.”
Keller noted dizziness and dehydration can become very dangerous when hiking.
“You can develop heat exhaustion which can eventually lead to heat stroke which can be fatal,” Keller said.
A strong high pressure system will likely keep highs in the 80s through the rest of this week. The National Weather Service warns these unseasonably warm temperatures do pose a minor heat risk, especially for sensitive groups.
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