Phoenix refuses to cool off on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, with afternoon highs locked in around 100 to 101°F and overnight lows stubbornly hanging in the low 70s. The near-record heat from earlier in the week has backed off a bit, but daytime temperatures are still expected to run about five to seven degrees above normal through Saturday. If you are trying to squeeze in a hike, yard work, or a workout, early morning and later evening are your best bets, since midafternoon will be the hottest and hardest time to be outside.
Afternoon Heat And Overnight Lows
Mostly sunny skies should dominate across the Valley, with highs topping out near 101°F and only a slight slide into the upper 90s late in the afternoon. By Wednesday night, temperatures are forecast to dip to around 71°F under clear skies. For anyone tackling strenuous outdoor work, the safest and coolest windows line up before 9 a.m. and after 7 p.m., when the sun is lower and the pavement is not radiating quite as much stored heat.
Winds And Fire Weather
Breezy conditions are expected to kick up in the Lower Colorado River Valley and higher terrain of Arizona this afternoon, with local gusts in the 20 to 30 mph range and some of that gusty wind likely spilling into parts of the metro over the weekend. Very dry afternoon air, with relative humidity values in some areas dropping into the single digits to low teens, is fueling elevated fire weather concerns in exposed desert and brush-covered areas. Forecasters at the National Weather Service have the full rundown on winds and fire danger.
Cooling Centers And Heat Tips
For anyone who needs a break from the heat, the City of Phoenix and the regional Heat Relief Network opened cooling centers and hydration sites on May 1, and many libraries and community centers are operating with extended hours. You can call 2-1-1 for help with transportation or check the City of Phoenix heat resources for a map of locations and hours. Keep water handy, steer clear of strenuous activity during the peak sun hours, and take a moment to check on older neighbors or anyone living without dependable air conditioning.
