From Hail to Heatwave, Phoenix Week Turns Wild

Monday is starting off calm and comfortable in Phoenix, with mostly clear skies and temperatures in the low 60s at Sky Harbor Airport. That quiet scene will not last. A slow-moving low over northern Mexico is pulling moisture into the Valley, setting the stage for showers and a few thunderstorms late Monday afternoon and into Monday night. Forecasters say some storms could crank out small hail, strong gusty winds and brief heavy downpours that cut visibility on area roads.

Afternoon Into Monday Night

Sun will hold on for much of the day, and highs should land near 81F. After about 5 p.m., though, the chance for showers and thunderstorms jumps, especially east of the city. The National Weather Service pegs overall odds near 4090% and notes that new rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch are possible in spots, with stronger cells capable of quick gusts and small hail. For full timing and impacts, check the forecast discussion from NWS Phoenix.

What To Watch Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies stick around Monday night, with lows near 56F and lingering shower chances through the overnight hours. Lightning and brief heavy downpours are the main hazards, so avoid standing water and move indoors if lightning is nearby, and give extra time for the commute as slick roads and brief urban flooding are possible. Keep an eye on radar if you have evening plans and stay clear of dry riverbeds and low-lying washes.

Midweek Heat Spike

High pressure builds quickly by midweek, pushing highs into the mid-80s on Wednesday and then into the low-to-mid 90s by Thursday and through the weekend. The forecast calls for highs near 92F Thursday and around the mid-90s Friday through Sunday. The forecast discussion points to a rapid warm-up with temperatures well above normal and even the potential for daily record highs March 1218, with some lower-desert spots flirting with the first 100F of the season in the extended outlook. Plan outdoor chores for morning or evening hours as humidity drops and afternoon heat returns.

This update follows our March 7 coverage; for background on the warming trend see our earlier story weekend heats up as Valley winds kick in. We will continue to update readers if storm timing or advisories change.