Thursday's high temperature in Tucson set a new daily record and was the second hottest August day on record, weather officials said.Β
The Tucson airport recorded 111 degrees as the high temperature Thursday, the National Weather Service said in a Facebook post. It's the hottest August 13th on record.Β
The high temperature also came close to the hottest August day on record β 112 degreesΒ β on August 1, 1993, the weather service said.Β
Thursday's high temperature was the 10th time it has gotten hotter than 110 degrees in August in Tucson. The last time it was at least 110 degrees was August 21, 2019.Β
The record and near-record high temperatures are expected to stick around through Sunday.
The weather service issued an excessive heat watch for Thursday morning through Sunday night this week for Pima County, the Tohono Oβodham Nation, and south-central and southeast Pinal County.
9 hiking tips to help keep you safe in Tucson weather
Bring the essentials
UpdatedTen essential items to carry on a hike:
- Navigation: map, compass, GPS
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, long sleeves
- Insulation: extra clothing such as jacket, fleece
- Illumination: headlamp, flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Fire: matches, lighter
- Repair kit and tools: multi-tool, whistle, signal mirror
- Nutrition: extra food
- Hydration: extra water
- Emergency shelter: large plastic bag, space blanket
In an emergency, call 911
UpdatedIn the event of an emergency, call 911 or send someone to get help.Β
Check your water
UpdatedBringing water with you should be a given. But it's important to turn around before half of your water is gone.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department recommends bringing along around one liter of water for each hour you'll be hiking.
Communicate
UpdatedIt's always important to communicate with your friends and family. Tell a responsible person where you are hiking and when you expect to be back.
Do not hike alone
UpdatedIt's always best to hike with other people. Plus, it's more fun to venture into hiking trails when you have friends or family with you.Β
Bring your phone
UpdatedTake a fully charged cell phone with you. Turn your phone off or place it in airplane mode to save its battery life. You never know when you'll need it.
Your cell phone may not work in the back country. You may have to move to a higher or more open location to place a call.
Check the weather beforehand
UpdatedPlan your hike so you are not hiking during the hottest part of the day or when monsoon storms are likely to cause heavy rains, lightning, and flooding. Always check the day's weather before leaving for your hike.
Know your limits
UpdatedHike within your ability. Know what's within reasonable distance or elevation for you.Β
Stay away from wildlife
UpdatedWhile on a hike, you're bound to see some animals.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department recommends keeping a safe distance from desert wildlife.Β