Phoenix Sees Near-Record Heat Before Midweek Cooldown

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Phoenix is experiencing near-record high temperatures to start the week, with highs reaching 96°F on Monday, just shy of the record of 97°F. Temperatures will remain in the 90s through Tuesday, but a weak disturbance is expected to bring slightly cooler conditions on Wednesday, with highs in the upper 80s and a slight chance of showers. Temperatures will then trend back into the 90s on Thursday before settling into the 80s for the rest of the week.

Why it matters

Phoenix's extreme heat is a growing concern as the region grapples with the impacts of climate change, including more frequent and intense heatwaves. While this week's cooldown provides some relief, it highlights the need for long-term solutions to address the city's vulnerability to extreme temperatures.

The details

Isolated thunderstorms south of the Valley could send a few outflow gusts and areas of blowing dust into the Phoenix metro this evening. Overnight conditions will stay mild, with lows only dropping into the low to mid-70s as humidity increases into Monday morning. Partly cloudy skies are expected on Tuesday, with highs in the low to mid-90s. A weak disturbance will bring slightly cooler conditions on Wednesday, with highs in the upper 80s and a slight chance of showers, though most activity should remain over higher terrain.

• Temperatures reached 96°F on Monday, just shy of the record of 97°F.
• Highs will remain in the 90s through Tuesday.
• A weak disturbance is expected to bring slightly cooler conditions on Wednesday, with highs in the upper 80s.
• Temperatures will trend back into the 90s on Thursday before settling into the 80s for the rest of the week.
• By Sunday, highs will climb again into the low 90s.