El Paso Braces for Near-Record Winter Heat

Sunny, dry conditions and highs up to 87°F expected this weekend

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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El Paso is set to experience an unusually warm stretch of weather, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-to-upper 80s Fahrenheit this weekend. The National Weather Service warns that there is a chance of tying or even breaking the city's February record high of 86°F. Forecasters also caution of elevated fire weather risks due to dry conditions and breezy afternoons next week.

Why it matters

The extreme winter heat in El Paso is highly unusual and could pose risks to public health and safety, especially for vulnerable populations. It also raises concerns about the potential impact on the region's water resources and wildfire danger.

The details

Temperatures are expected to climb steadily through the weekend, with highs near 83°F on Friday, February 27, followed by mid-to-upper 80s on Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1. The National Weather Service says these readings could challenge or even exceed El Paso's February record high of 86°F. There is also a small chance the city could reach 90°F on Sunday. Afternoons will be breezy, which could kick up pockets of blowing dust. Next week, the pattern is expected to shift toward stronger winds and continued drying, raising elevated to critical fire weather concerns across the region.

  • On Friday, February 27, the high temperature is expected to reach near 83°F.
  • On Saturday, February 28, highs are forecast to reach the mid-to-upper 80s Fahrenheit.
  • On Sunday, March 1, temperatures could climb as high as the upper 80s Fahrenheit, with a small chance of reaching 90°F.

The players

National Weather Service El Paso

The local office of the National Weather Service that provides weather forecasts and warnings for the El Paso region.

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What they’re saying

“Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, clear yard debris where they can, and follow local fire agency guidance if they work or recreate outdoors.”

— National Weather Service El Paso (hoodline.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service El Paso will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for record-breaking temperatures and elevated fire weather risks in the coming days.

The takeaway

The extreme winter heat in El Paso is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change, and underscores the importance of being prepared for and adapting to these types of extreme weather events in the future.