Tucson Shops Battle Heat and Bills | Tucson News

Tucson News Today | 2 Min Now | The Daily News Now! · Aug 18, 2026 · 1m

Tucson’s small businesses are sweating through a brutal summer, battling soaring temperatures and skyrocketing energy bills in aging buildings that can’t stay cool—even with AC running nonstop. Owners are turning to ice packs and creative hacks just to survive, while hoping customers brave the heat to shop. A viral social media post sparked a wave of solidarity among fellow business owners, revealing a shared struggle—and a community rallying to support each other. Experts say simple maintenance like pre-cooling spaces and regular AC upkeep can help, but many still face tough choices between…