Phoenix is starting Labor Day under mostly clear skies and temperatures near 88 degrees, but the brief morning comfort will not last. The city is forecast to reach 107 degrees Monday, with another stretch of dangerous heat building across the Valley through Thursday.
Monday will be sunny, with west-northwest winds of up to 10 mph and occasional gusts near 20 mph during the afternoon. The overnight low should fall only to about 86 degrees, offering limited relief after a day that will feel more like a furnace than a holiday.
Extreme Heat Warning Begins Tuesday
The National Weather Service Phoenix has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the Phoenix metropolitan area from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 8 p.m. Thursday. Afternoon temperatures are expected to reach 105 to 109 degrees, while warmer nights in the mid-to-upper 80s could make it harder for people and buildings to cool down.
Tuesday and Wednesday are both expected to top out near 107 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Thursday could be the hottest day of the stretch, with a high near 107 and heat indices across the lower deserts potentially reaching 108 to 117 degrees, according to the forecast discussion.
The latest warning marks a significant escalation from Sunday’s Labor Day forecast, which called for a 106-degree high but did not yet include the same extended heat alert. Hoodline previously reported that the Valley was already headed into an unusually hot holiday weekend.
Storm Chances Return Late In The Week
Rain chances remain close to zero through Wednesday, then begin to rise Thursday evening. The forecast calls for a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms Thursday, increasing to 30% Friday before easing to slight chances over the weekend.
Friday should be somewhat cooler at 104 degrees, followed by highs near 102 Saturday and 101 Sunday. Even with the modest cooldown, storms could bring strong wind gusts, blowing dust, lightning and brief heavy rain, especially from Thursday evening into the weekend.
Cooling Help Available Across Maricopa County
Residents who work outside or lack reliable air conditioning should limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, drink water regularly and take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning. Heat stroke is an emergency; anyone showing signs of confusion, fainting or severe overheating should be moved to a cool place while 911 is called.
Maricopa County says heat relief sites, including cooling centers, respite centers and hydration stations, are available through September 30. Residents can call 2-1-1 for help finding free cooling locations, water and transportation assistance during the heat emergency.
