Hazy skies and a blazing sun are already working over Phoenix this Friday, June 26, with temperatures hovering around 90°F at Sky Harbor early this afternoon. The forecast calls for a high near 109°F later in the day, and by Friday evening winds are expected to ramp up, bringing gusts, blowing dust and elevated fire danger that could stretch through Sunday, June 28.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Across the Phoenix metro, south winds of 0–15 mph are on tap, with gusts up to 25 mph during the peak afternoon and evening hours on Friday, June 26. Stronger bursts of 30–55 mph are likely farther west, along the Lower Colorado River Valley and in higher terrain, which could spell trouble for high-profile vehicles. According to the National Weather Service, wind advisories and Red Flag Warnings are in effect for portions of the region.
Fire Danger and Blowing Dust
Minimum relative humidity is expected to sink into the single digits to mid-teens across parts of the area. Combined with dry fuels and those gusty winds, that sets the stage for a higher risk of critical fire behavior and pockets of dense blowing dust from Friday night into Sunday, June 28. Drivers should be ready for sudden drops in visibility on some freeways and hazy conditions in neighborhoods near river valleys.
When to Change Plans
If you are planning to be outside, shift strenuous activity to the coolest morning hours, tie down or store patio furniture and trash bins, and use extra caution on the roads Friday evening, June 26, when crosswinds are expected to peak. Temperatures dip only slightly on Saturday, June 27, with highs in the mid-to-upper 90s, and rebound to the lower 100s by Sunday, June 28, though conditions stay warm and dry through the weekend.
Where to Find Cooling
For those who need a break from the heat, the City of Phoenix operates a Heat Relief Network of cooling centers and hydration stations and advises residents to call 2-1-1 for help finding locations and arranging transportation. Check the City of Phoenix Heat Relief Network for site locations, hours and additional safety tips.
