Phoenix, Arizona – Temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and near 90°F by Thursday afternoon, bringing a summerlike stretch of heat across Arizona and New Mexico before a significant high wind event develops late in the period.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, both states are in a 60 to 70 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. A broad ridge will allow temperatures to steadily rise under dry air and clear skies.
In Phoenix and across Maricopa County, highs are expected to reach 88 to 92°F between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with overnight lows in the low 60s. In New Mexico, Albuquerque and Bernalillo County will see highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s, warming further into the upper 80s by the weekend.
Conditions will shift beginning April 18 as a southwestern system develops. Wind gusts are expected to increase to 35 to 45 mph across both states, especially along the I-10 and I-40 corridors. These winds could create hazardous travel, particularly for high-profile vehicles.
Blowing dust is a major concern across southern Arizona and parts of southern New Mexico, including areas near Tucson, Las Cruces, and along open desert highways, where visibility could drop quickly.
The precipitation outlook shows limited rainfall overall, but isolated showers or high-elevation snow may develop in northern Arizona and New Mexico late in the period.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid outdoor burning, and stay alert for rapidly changing conditions. Drivers should prepare for strong crosswinds and sudden drops in visibility due to dust.
The warmest conditions are expected through April 18, followed by a transition to a wind-driven pattern through April 22. Additional advisories are likely as this system strengthens across the Southwest.
