Phoenix, Ariz. – Dark clouds drift across the Valley this morning, and isolated showers could briefly dampen roads before the desert turns hot again. By early afternoon, sunshine returns for many neighborhoods, but monsoon moisture keeps storm chances in the picture through much of the coming week.
Central Arizona is entering a familiar midsummer pattern with daily opportunities for showers and thunderstorms followed by a return to triple-digit heat early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, scattered showers and thunderstorms remain possible through the morning, with another 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms before early afternoon. High temperatures are expected to reach 96 degrees today before climbing to 99 degrees Sunday, 101 degrees Monday, and 102 degrees Tuesday.
While rainfall will be spotty, any thunderstorm could quickly produce brief heavy rain, gusty outflow winds, frequent lightning, and sharply reduced visibility. Drivers along Interstate 10, Loop 101, Loop 202, U.S. 60, and Interstate 17 should be prepared for sudden changes in conditions, especially if blowing dust develops ahead of thunderstorms. Slow down if visibility drops and never drive through water covering a roadway.
Meteorologists continue tracking the evolving monsoon pattern. Storm chances remain in the forecast each day, although many communities will stay dry. A few stronger storms could develop during the afternoon or evening, bringing localized downpours and wind gusts that affect outdoor activities and evening travel. Tornado potential remains very low, but isolated severe thunderstorms can occasionally produce damaging wind during Arizona’s monsoon season.
The bigger story by early next week becomes the return of intense summer heat. Afternoon temperatures above 100 degrees will combine with warm mornings in the lower 80s, limiting overnight relief. Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
Longer-range outlooks also favor above-normal temperatures into the 6- to 10-day period, suggesting the summer heat will remain firmly in place across the Desert Southwest.
Five-Day Forecast for Phoenix, Arizona
- Today: 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, then partly sunny. High 96°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny with a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 99°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny. High 101°F.
- Tuesday: Chance of showers early, then mostly sunny. High 102°F.
- Wednesday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms before late morning, then mostly sunny. High 102°F
