Record-Breaking Heatwave Sweeps Across U.S., Europe, and China

The greater Phoenix area has broken the record for the number of consecutive days above 110°F with 19, but Valley veterans remember June 26, 1990, as the hottest day ever recorded in Phoenix, reaching a scorching 122°F. On that day, older model planes at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport were grounded due to a lack of guidance on flying in temperatures over 120°F. The urban heat island effect, combined with the absence of cooling centers and outreach programs, has made the Valley's nights hotter and contributed to the increase in extreme temperatures. The Salt River Project (SRP) also noted a significant increase in electricity demand during heatwaves, with a record peak of 7,997 megawatts delivered on July 17, 2023.