Clear skies and a mild start in central Phoenix on Saturday morning, with temperatures sitting around 75°F, are giving residents a brief window of comfort before the heat cranks up. Under full sun, the Valley is expected to surge into the upper 90s this afternoon, so the pleasant early hours will not stick around for long.
Today And This Weekend
The National Weather Service is calling for a high near 97°F today, with Sunday likely to peak around 99°F and a few lower-desert spots briefly flirting with 100°F. Afternoon humidity should drop into roughly the 10 to 20 percent range, keeping conditions firmly in the "dry heat" category and overnight lows only dipping into the low 70s.
Anyone trying to time their pool day, hike, or drive around town can find the full forecast and latest updates from the National Weather Service.
Midweek Winds And Fire Risk
Winds will stay on the lighter side through Memorial Day, but forecasters are tracking a notable pattern change by midweek. Stronger southerly winds are expected to develop, with gusts around 25 mph possible on Wednesday and Thursday.
That uptick in wind, combined with poor overnight humidity recovery and already dry fuels, could increase fire danger across parts of the region and near the lower Colorado River valley. Forecasters also flag a small chance of afternoon thunderstorms over the eastern high country on Monday, where dry lightning could spark new fires while dropping little to no measurable rain.
Heat Relief And What To Do
Cooling centers, hydration stations and other relief sites are open across the Valley through the regional Heat Relief Network. Residents can use the interactive map or call 2-1-1 to find the nearest spot to cool down, according to Maricopa County.
For outdoor plans, officials advise shifting activity to the morning or evening hours, drinking plenty of water, and checking on older neighbors and pets when the afternoon heat peaks.
No watches or warnings are posted for Phoenix this morning, but conditions can change quickly. Anyone planning to hit the road or host outdoor Memorial Day gatherings is urged to check the latest forecast first. Hikers should pack extra water and aim for early-morning trail time, when temperatures are far more forgiving than the broiler that sets in later in the day.
