Phoenix, Arizona – Unseasonably warm temperatures continue across Arizona as a stubborn blocking weather pattern keeps high pressure locked over the region, limiting storm activity and holding daytime highs well above early February averages.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, the Western U.S. remains under a Rex Block, a setup where a strong high-pressure system sits north of a closed low-pressure circulation. That configuration has suppressed storm systems and allowed warmer air to dominate much of the Desert Southwest, keeping skies mostly clear and temperatures elevated across the state.
That pattern begins to weaken late Thursday, allowing remnants of the offshore low to swing north through Arizona late Thursday into Friday. Increasing mid and high-level cloud cover is expected statewide, including across the Phoenix metro, with the potential for virga — precipitation that evaporates before reaching the ground — and possibly a brief sprinkle or very light rain shower. Widespread rainfall is not expected, and many areas may see little more than thicker clouds and filtered sunshine.
Despite the added cloud cover, temperatures will remain mild, though slightly lower than earlier in the week. Winds may increase at times, especially across open desert areas, as the atmospheric pattern transitions.
Forecasters say additional changes are possible heading into the weekend as the pattern continues to evolve. Residents are encouraged to stay updated in case rain chances or wind impacts increase going into Friday or beyond.
