Phoenix starts Friday mostly clear and near 90 degrees, but the calm morning is a brief prelude to another dangerous heat day. Temperatures are expected to climb to 111 by late afternoon, with a heat index as high as 113 across the metro area.
Extreme Heat Warning Runs Through Sunday
The National Weather Service has an Extreme Heat Warning in effect through 8 p.m. Sunday for Phoenix and the surrounding metro area. Afternoon highs are forecast between 108 and 114 degrees, bringing major heat risk and a significant increase in heat-related illness.
Friday Stays Mostly Dry Before Weekend Shift
Friday will be sunny, with west winds around 5 to 10 mph and occasional afternoon gusts in the mid-to-upper teens. Rain chances remain very low in the lower desert, though a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms could reach the area between 9 and 10 p.m., with rainfall expected to stay below a tenth of an inch.
Friday night will offer little relief, with temperatures falling only to around 91 and heat index values as high as 110. Saturday could be even hotter, reaching 112 under sunny skies, while Sunday is forecast to top out near 111.
Monsoon Chances Expand Next Week
The bigger forecast shift arrives Sunday evening and Monday, when moisture returns and thunderstorm chances expand into the lower deserts. Monday brings a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m., followed by additional storm chances Tuesday and Wednesday.
Highs ease to around 108 Monday and 105 Tuesday and Wednesday, with Thursday staying mostly sunny and reaching about 104. That is still hot, but it will feel like a modest step down from this weekend's triple-digit furnace.
Heat Safety Remains Critical
Anyone working or exercising outside should move strenuous activity to early morning or evening, take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning, and drink plenty of water. Maricopa County says residents can call 2-1-1 for cooling centers, transportation and water, with additional resources available through county officials; call 911 for suspected heat stroke.
