Clear skies and a mild start kicked off a rapid warm up across Phoenix today, February 1, 2026, with the KPHX station clocking in at about 61°F early and the valley already aimed at the low 80s by afternoon. The air is dry and winds are generally light out of the east, so the sunshine will make it feel a bit hotter than the thermometers let on.
Afternoon Record Watch
Forecasters say Phoenix has roughly a 70% chance of tying the daily record high of 83°F for February 1 and just over a 50% chance of breaking it as a strong ridge of high pressure parks over the region. Many lower-desert neighborhoods are expected to reach 80 to 85°F through midweek, and downsloping easterly winds could nudge a few spots briefly into the mid 80s. Afternoon relative humidity will likely drop into the 12 to 20% range while overnight recovery only hovers near 35 to 55%, and local ridgetops could see gusts of 20 to 25 mph with some eastern and south-central Arizona locations sampling gusts up to 30 to 35 mph at times. National Weather Service Phoenix
Fire Weather And Outdoor Plans
The combination of dry air and warm afternoons means outdoor burning and careless campfires are a riskier bet than usual, so it is smart to postpone yard-waste burns and make sure grills and loose patio items are secure on breezier days. Hydrate, use sun protection during peak afternoon hours, and keep tabs on pets that spend time outside. For background on the broader warm trend we have been tracking, check out our earlier record-heat coverage.
This Week At A Glance
Monday should top out near 79°F under mostly sunny skies, then bounce back into the low 80s Tuesday and peak near the mid 80s by Wednesday before a gradual cooldown slides in late in the week. Rain chances stay negligible through early next weekend, so plan outdoor activities with confidence, but keep an eye on updated forecasts if your plans take you through higher elevations. National Weather Service Phoenix
