Arizona Summer Weather Alert: Phoenix Weekend Heatwave Builds Friday, July 18 – Limit Time Outdoors and Check ACs

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Phoenix, Arizona – Relentless heat will return to central Arizona by Friday, July 18, with temperatures climbing back into triple digits and staying there through midweek. Residents across Phoenix and surrounding cities should plan for highs of 105°F Friday and up to 106°F Saturday—well above seasonal norms.

According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, skies will remain clear through Sunday, with only light afternoon winds offering brief relief. Friday’s high will reach 105°F by midafternoon, with Saturday expected to peak near 106°F. Nighttime lows in the mid-80s will offer little cooling, posing added risks for heat-related illness, especially for vulnerable groups.

Local agencies advise avoiding prolonged exposure on major corridors like I-10 and AZ-51, where radiating asphalt can push temperatures even higher. Officials urge Arizonans to hydrate frequently, limit time outdoors, and ensure pets and children are not left in vehicles.

The weekend stays dry, with full sun expected both Saturday and Sunday. A minor 10% chance of isolated thunderstorms returns Monday night, but no significant rain is forecast through midweek.

Energy use is expected to spike as residents rely heavily on air conditioning. APS and SRP recommend adjusting thermostats slightly to reduce grid strain during peak hours.

🔎 Five-Day Forecast for Phoenix (July 18–23):

  • Friday: Sunny, high 105°F, low 86°F. Light afternoon winds.
  • Saturday: Sunny, high 106°F, low 84°F. Continued dry.
  • Sunday: Sunny, high 105°F, low 84°F.
  • Monday: Mostly sunny, high 104°F. Slight chance of storms Monday night.
  • Tuesday: Sunny, high 104°F. Low of 84°F Tuesday night.

Temperatures will remain above 100°F through at least Wednesday, July 23. No cooling trend is expected.