Phoenix is starting Saturday under clear skies and already-hot conditions, with temperatures around 95 degrees before sunrise. The thermometer is expected to climb quickly, reaching 112 degrees by afternoon as the Valley begins another dangerous stretch of extreme heat.
The National Weather Service has an Extreme Heat Warning in effect through 8 p.m. Sunday for Phoenix and surrounding parts of Maricopa County. Afternoon temperatures across the lower deserts are expected to run from 109 to 114 degrees, with Saturday's heat index reaching 113.
Weekend Heat Offers Almost No Relief
Saturday will be sunny with light south winds, while overnight temperatures fall only to around 90 degrees. Sunday will be slightly cooler at 111 degrees, but the heat index could still reach 112, and the warning remains in place through Sunday evening.
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives after 5 p.m. Sunday, though most storm activity is expected to stay in higher terrain north and east of Phoenix. Lower desert communities could instead see gusty outflow winds and blowing dust, with only a limited chance of measurable rain.
Storm Chances Rise As Temperatures Ease
The forecast turns more active Monday, when Phoenix could reach 108 degrees with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m. Storm chances remain near 50% Tuesday and Wednesday as highs cool to 103 and 101 degrees, respectively.
By Thursday and Friday, highs are expected to hover near 100 to 102 degrees, with storm chances trending lower. Overnight lows should also become more manageable, falling to the low 80s by the middle and end of the week.
Cooling Help Is Available Across Maricopa County
Residents should avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, drink water regularly and take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade. Heat exhaustion can worsen quickly, and anyone showing signs of heat stroke should be moved to a cool place while 911 is called.
Maricopa County says people who need a cool place, water, transportation or other heat-relief services can call 2-1-1. The county's heat-relief network includes cooling centers, respite sites and hydration stations across the Valley.
