Phoenix is heating up in a big way this week, with unseasonably high temperatures pushing near the 90°F (32°C) mark by midweek. This unexpected warmth is well above the typical late-February average of 70°F (21°C), making it feel more like late spring or early summer in the Valley of the Sun.
If you thought winter had any fight left in it, think again. A strong high-pressure system has settled over the Southwest, trapping warm air and keeping skies clear, allowing the sun to crank up the heat. Wednesday and Thursday will be the hottest days of the week, with highs expected to flirt with record-breaking levels.
But relief is on the way. A shift in weather patterns will bring cooler temperatures by the weekend, though Phoenix will remain on the warm side compared to seasonal norms.
Why Is Phoenix Experiencing This Heatwave?
The current warm spell is driven by a stubborn high-pressure ridge parked over the region. This system is acting like a heat dome, blocking cooler air from moving in and allowing temperatures to rise quickly.
February heatwaves aren’t unheard of in Phoenix, but temperatures this high, this early in the year, are unusual. The city has already been experiencing warmer-than-average conditions in recent weeks, and this surge of heat is only adding to the trend.
Meteorologists expect this warming pattern to peak on Thursday, before a gradual cooling trend sets in just in time for the weekend. While the cooldown won’t bring drastic temperature drops, highs will settle back into the low 80s, offering some much-needed relief.
Phoenix 5-Day Weather Forecast
- Thursday, February 27: Another scorching day, with bright sunshine and a high near 89°F (32°C) before cooling to 60°F (16°C) overnight.
- Friday, February 28: Still warm but beginning to ease slightly, with a high of 85°F (29°C) and a nighttime low of 57°F (14°C).
- Saturday, March 1: A shift towards cooler conditions, with partly sunny skies and a high of 81°F (27°C), dipping to 54°F (12°C) at night.
- Sunday, March 2: Increasing clouds throughout the day, with a still-warm high of 79°F (26°C) and a low of 54°F (12°C) overnight.
What This Means for Phoenix Residents
While the warm weather is a dream for outdoor activities, it’s important to take precautions. With low humidity and intense sun exposure, dehydration and sunburn can happen quickly. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid extended time in direct sunlight during peak hours.
The heat may also lead to increased energy consumption, as many will turn to air conditioning to stay cool. Fortunately, the cooldown later in the week should provide a natural break from high electricity usage.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, Wednesday and Thursday will be the hottest and sunniest days, while the weekend will offer slightly cooler and more comfortable conditions.
Looking Ahead: Will Phoenix Stay Hot in March?
As we head into March, Phoenix is expected to remain warmer than average, but not quite as extreme as this week’s heatwave. Highs in the upper 70s to low 80s are expected in the first part of the month, with occasional cloud cover offering brief breaks from the intense sunshine.
While no significant storms or cold fronts are on the horizon, it’s always wise to keep an eye on changing forecasts, as the transition from winter to spring can bring unexpected shifts in weather patterns.
