Too Hot to Play: Arizona’s Playgrounds Turn Into Ghost Towns


By: Ciara Perez | Investigative Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published June 20th, 2025

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PHOENIX, AZ — Just a few weeks ago, neighborhood parks across Arizona were filled with the joyful sounds of kids playing, laughing, and soaking up the summer. Now? They’re empty. Slides sit untouched, swings hang still, and jungle gyms bake under the blazing sun.

With temperatures spiking above 114 degrees, Arizona is in the grip of a scorching summer—and the impact is being felt everywhere, especially in local neighborhoods where outdoor play has come to a complete stop.

“I used to take my boys to the park every morning,” said Tempe mom Sarah Molina. “Now we don’t even open the blinds until after sunset.”

Arizona has been under extreme heat warnings for days, and residents are finding unique ways to pass the time—like frying eggs on sidewalks just to see if they’ll cook. Spoiler: they do.

“It’s wild. My neighbor actually cracked an egg on a baking sheet and set it on his driveway. It started sizzling,” laughed Mark Evans from Gilbert. “We’re literally cooking breakfast outside.”

But underneath the humor is a harsh reality. Families are staying indoors, not just for comfort, but for safety. The extreme heat poses serious health risks, and local officials are urging everyone to limit outdoor time, stay hydrated, and keep an eye on vulnerable neighbors.

Inside, children are doing their best to cope. Many are watching movies, playing video games, or simply staring at the ceiling in boredom. The carefree chaos of summer has been replaced with restlessness and cabin fever.

“I miss the park,” said 7-year-old Tyler. “I just want to ride my scooter without burning my hands on the handlebars.”

For now, Arizona’s playgrounds are silent. No laughter. No running feet. Just heat waves rising off the pavement and a collective hope that cooler days will come soon.


🔥 Heat Tip: Don’t test the limits—stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., drink lots of water, and never leave pets or people in parked cars.

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