Arizona – The desert air is already warming fast this morning, and a powerful early-season heat surge is building toward the Valley by midweek. Temperatures will climb sharply over the next 48 hours, pushing Phoenix toward its first triple-digit readings of the season as an Extreme Heat Watch approaches.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, an Extreme Heat Watch begins Thursday morning and remains in effect through Sunday evening across south-central and southwest Arizona. Afternoon highs between 103°F and 109°F are possible across the lower deserts, including Phoenix, Yuma, and communities across Maricopa County.
The warming trend begins gradually. Valley highs climb into the mid-90s Tuesday before pushing near 101°F Wednesday afternoon, signaling the start of the heat surge. By Thursday afternoon, Phoenix could reach 104°F, with hotter readings expected into the weekend as the ridge strengthens across the Southwest.
Cities including Glendale, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, and Avondale will feel the same intense desert heat. Asphalt and vehicle interiors can heat quickly during these early spring spikes. Plan outdoor work early in the morning and take frequent shade breaks.
Drivers across Interstate 10, Loop 101, and Loop 202 should also keep extra water in vehicles. Early-season heat often catches residents off guard, especially during March when many visitors are outdoors for spring travel and baseball events.
Meteorologists say the ridge expanding across California, Nevada, and Arizona will likely push several cities toward record highs late this week. Additional heat alerts may follow as temperatures continue rising.
For now, prepare for several days of rapidly increasing heat across the Valley.
Five Day Forecast for Phoenix, Arizona
Monday: Sunny, high near 91°F, light northeast wind.
Tuesday: Sunny, high near 95°F with dry desert air.
Wednesday: Sunny and hotter, high near 101°F.
Thursday: Sunny and very hot, high near 104°F.
Friday: Extreme heat building, high near 106°F.
