Winter is taking a timeout in Phoenix this weekend, with sunny skies and an early-season warm-up pushing highs into the low 80s Saturday and roughly 846F on Sunday. Overnight lows will stay mild, generally in the mid 50s, so there will not be much overnight relief from the daytime warmth. Winds should stay light, setting up a pleasant, if warmer-than-normal, stretch for errands, hikes and patio time.
What To Expect
The National Weather Service is calling for a high near 826F on Saturday and about 846F on Sunday, with little to no rain in the cards and generally light winds, according to the National Weather Service Phoenix. Afternoon relative humidity is expected to dip into the mid teens to mid 20s across the lower deserts, and fire weather guidance flags drier-than-normal conditions through Monday. Even without strong gusts, the parched air means a higher-than-normal risk for brush fire spread in rural and open areas.
Why It's Warm
Forecasters point to a broad, stable ridge parked over the Southwest that is keeping skies sunny and temperatures running several degrees above normal. That same pattern is also keeping nighttime temps from dropping as much as usual. It produced near-record warm nights earlier this week and is expected to hold into early next week before the flow starts to flatten. A gradual cool-down should arrive by midweek as the region shifts toward a more unsettled setup with small chances for showers later in the week.
Through Next Week
Temperatures are projected to settle back into the upper 70s to mid 70s by midweek, though the details hinge on how late-week systems evolve. The National Weather Service notes that any meaningful chance for rain is more likely toward late next week or the following weekend, but confidence is still limited at this distance. If you have outdoor plans later in the week, it is worth keeping an eye on updated forecasts.
How To Stay Comfortable
Even with only a Minor Heat Risk in effect for the lower deserts, basic warm-weather habits still help: carry water, skip heavy exertion during the hottest part of the afternoon, and check on older neighbors, young kids and pets. The combination of dry air and mild nights means less overnight recovery, so anyone without reliable cooling should take extra care. For more background on this warm spell, see our Feb. 1 warm spell story.
