Phoenix Flirts With Another Heat Record

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Phoenix is nearing another heat record on Friday with a forecasted high of 102 degrees, which would break the previous record of 98 degrees set in 1986. However, a temperature swing is on the way, with highs expected to drop into the mid-80s by next Wednesday.

Why it matters

Phoenix's early and prolonged heat waves are a sign of the region's struggle with climate change, with the city seeing its first 100-degree day about six weeks earlier than average. The upcoming temperature drop and chance of showers provide some relief, but the extreme heat highlights the need for the city to adapt to a hotter future.

The details

After just missing the heat record on Thursday, Phoenix is forecast to hit 102 degrees on Friday, which would break the previous record of 98 degrees set in 1986. This continues a trend of early and prolonged heat waves in the region. However, a shift in the weather pattern is expected to bring temperatures down into the mid- to upper 90s over the weekend, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the higher terrain. By next Wednesday, highs are expected to drop into the mid-80s, something the city hasn't seen since March 11.

• On Thursday, Phoenix nearly broke its heat record.
• On Friday, Phoenix is forecast to hit 102 degrees, which would break the previous record of 98 degrees set in 1986.
• On average, Phoenix sees its first 100-degree day on May 2, but this year it came about six weeks early.
• Over the weekend, temperatures will fall into the mid- to upper 90s, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the higher terrain.
• By next Wednesday, highs are expected to drop into the mid-80s, something the city hasn't seen since March 11.