Sunday, June 28 is staying sunny and bone-dry across Phoenix, with midday readings in the upper 90s and a high near 102°F expected. Southerly winds will ramp up this afternoon, bringing steady breezes and gusts as high as 25 mph in spots. The combo of low humidity and gusty winds is driving elevated fire danger east of the Valley, and officials have issued warnings for some rural districts. Overnight lows will hang in the upper 70s before a cooler-than-usual stretch settles in early this week.
Afternoon Winds Crank Up
South-southwest winds are forecast to strengthen this afternoon, generally 5–15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph and locally higher through desert corridors. Those gusts can kick up dust on exposed roads and make things tricky for high-profile vehicles, especially along I-10 and other open stretches. Expect the breeziest conditions from late morning into the evening. The National Weather Service has more on the gusty winds and related hazards at NWS Phoenix.
Fire Weather Concerns
A Red Flag Warning is in effect through 8 p.m. MST Sunday for parts of southern Gila County and the Tonto National Forest foothills, where gusty winds, low humidity and very dry fuels could allow fires to spread quickly. Residents in rural and wildland-urban interface areas are urged to avoid any outdoor burning, secure machinery and equipment that could generate sparks, and report smoke immediately. Fire agencies note that overnight recoveries will be poor, so afternoon and evening hours remain the highest-risk window. See the National Weather Service forecast discussion for details in the NWS discussion.
Week Ahead
Temperatures will hold a few degrees below seasonal normals through much of the coming week, with highs around 100–102°F Monday through Wednesday before a gradual warmup late in the week. By Thursday and into the holiday weekend, afternoon readings are expected to climb back into the mid-100s, peaking around 104–107°F by the Fourth of July. Conditions stay dry with little to no chance of rain across the Valley and overnight lows mostly in the mid-70s. For the latest outlook, check NWS Phoenix.
What To Do
If you have outdoor plans, skip open flames and postpone yard or equipment work that could throw sparks until winds ease. Tie down loose patio furniture and shade structures, keep pets and kids cool, and carry water if you will be outside. If you see smoke, call 911 and do not assume someone else has already reported it.
