110-Degree Heat Could Hit Phoenix By Friday, Forecasters Say

PHOENIX, AZ — Enjoy the relatively mild start to the week. It won't last long.

Temperatures across the Phoenix area will stay in the 100 to 105 degree range today and Tuesday, which passes for relatively comfortable this time of year.

Don't get used to it. By Friday, the National Weather Service is warning that readings could approach 110 degrees, with that heat potentially stretching into the weekend.

In the meantime, a separate concern is developing. Winds are expected to gust 20 to 25 mph through Tuesday, particularly across higher terrain north and east of Phoenix.

Combined with humidity values dropping near 10 percent and poor overnight recovery, the weather service says elevated fire weather conditions will persist through midweek. Residents near fire-prone areas should remain aware of conditions.

The heat surge arrives mid-to-late week as upper-level high pressure builds across the western United States, pushing temperatures 5 to 8 degrees above normal.

Many lower desert communities could see afternoon highs near or above 110 degrees as early as Friday, officials said.

One additional factor bears watching. Increasing moisture late in the week could produce isolated thunderstorms over Arizona's higher terrain, something the weather service said it will monitor closely over the next several forecast cycles.

Winds are expected to lighten later in the week, reducing the overall fire weather threat, though very low humidity will keep conditions concerning in some areas.

Residents are advised to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours and check the latest forecast at weather.gov as conditions develop.