Rhododendron pruning

We have a beautiful rhododendron which flowers profusely every year in a raised bed on our patio. It was left in the garden by previous owner. I tend to prune off the old foliage once it has died back after its usual magnificent flowering. This year I started the usual procedure and noticed some new 'shoots' were already emerging as I was cutting off the dead stamens. Should I refrain from pruning in this very hot weather so as to prevent any new shoots from 'burning' ?? The plant is in shade some of the day but full sun for the afternoon. It is so hot so early this year I don't want to prevent the gorgeous display of colour we usually get by being over active with the secateurs.