Flagstaff, Arizona – Temperatures are rising fast enough to challenge not just March records but even April benchmarks by midafternoon, with triple-digit heat expected in parts of northern and central Arizona through Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, a strong ridge of high pressure will drive daily record highs across the region, with some locations running 20 to 30 degrees above normal. Forecasters warn that several cities could set new March records each day through Saturday, with a few sites nearing or exceeding typical April extremes.
Flagstaff is projected to hit 83°F Thursday and 84°F Friday, well above its previous records in the low 70s. In lower elevations, Cottonwood could surge to 100°F Friday, while Phantom Ranch is expected to reach 102°F. Prescott and Payson will climb into the 90s, creating unusually early-season heat stress for residents and outdoor recreation areas.
Drivers along I-17 and State Route 89A should prepare for heat-related vehicle strain, especially during peak afternoon hours. Residents are urged to hydrate, limit strenuous outdoor activity between noon and 5 p.m., and check on vulnerable populations.
The heat persists through Saturday before gradual cooling begins late in the weekend. Additional advisories may be issued as record-breaking temperatures continue across Arizona.
