Phoenix is rolling into Friday, April 17, 2026, with mostly clear skies and a comfortable 64°F on the thermometer. A Wind Advisory is up through 1 PM MST for parts of the western deserts and the Lower Colorado River Valley. Across the Valley, expect sunshine and a high near 85°F today, with temperatures climbing into the low 90s on Saturday and the mid 90s by Sunday.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Those advisory-area deserts will feel it first, with gusts of 30 to 45 mph after sunrise. Most other spots can expect more typical afternoon breezes in the 25 to 35 mph range, although a few locations could briefly hit advisory-level gusts. The strongest winds could make things tricky for high-profile vehicles on I-10 around and west of Blythe, and some brief blowing dust is possible in open desert corridors.
Winds should gradually ease later this afternoon as the pressure gradient relaxes, but pockets of gusty wind may linger through the midday commute, according to the National Weather Service Phoenix.
Weekend Warm-Up
Upper level ridging will build over the region through the weekend, pushing highs to about 91°F on Saturday and near 96°F on Sunday, which is currently expected to be the warmest day in the outlook. On Sunday, east-southeast afternoon breezes of 5 to 15 mph may gust to around 25 mph in more exposed areas.
Very low afternoon humidity, often below 15 percent and sometimes sinking into the single digits, will bring elevated fire weather concerns for the western deserts. For more on the pattern and earlier expectations, check out this earlier "cloudy wake-up, fiery weekend" forecast.
What To Do
Before the gusts hit, secure patio furniture, umbrellas, and any loose outdoor gear that might try to relocate itself down the block. If you have to drive along desert stretches of I-10, give oversized and high-profile vehicles extra space in case of sudden crosswinds or reduced visibility from blowing dust.
With the heat ramping up this weekend, try to schedule strenuous outdoor activities for early morning or later in the evening, carry water, and skip open burning during the breezy, dry afternoon hours. Keep an eye on the latest local forecasts and any updated advisories or warnings before you head out.
