A heat wave in the Southwest has triggered an early emergence of scorpions and rattlesnakes, posing significant risks to pets and residents. The Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center (AZPDIC) reports a notable increase in bite and sting incidents, with scorpions being a primary concern. In 2025, AZPDIC handled nearly 1,300 bite and sting cases, including 734 scorpion-related incidents. Already this year, Phoenix has reported 10 rattlesnake bites and 237 scorpion stings.