A late-week weather system is expected to ease temperatures across Arizona over the weekend, but officials warn the accompanying winds and dry conditions will increase wildfire risk in many areas. Phoenix recorded a high of 98 degrees on Friday as the pattern began shifting toward slightly cooler readings.
FOX 10 forecast graphic labeled “COOLER” mid‑week showing a high‑pressure center over Phoenix and cooler conditions spreading across Arizona.
Forecast highs for the core of the weekend show Saturday near 99 degrees in Phoenix, Sunday around 94 degrees and Monday dropping to roughly 92 degrees — modestly below seasonal averages. Statewide maps reflect cooler conditions in the high country, with Flagstaff in the low 70s while the lower deserts remain in the upper 90s to low 100s.
Statewide highs map from FOX 10 displaying daytime temperatures across Arizona — cooler readings in the high country (Flagstaff ~70°F) and hotter readings in the lower deserts (Phoenix ~99°F).
Winds will increase as the system moves through. Gusts are forecast up to about 45 mph in higher elevations and as high as 25 mph in the Phoenix area. A wind advisory for portions of Imperial County begins Saturday afternoon and runs through Sunday night, with prevailing westerly winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts that could reach 55 mph.
Dry fuel conditions combined with those stronger winds have prompted Red Flag Warnings across many regions. Areas listed under Red Flag Warnings include portions of Eastern Pima, Southeastern Pinal, Santa Cruz, Western Cochise, the White Mountains, the Mogollon Rim, the Kaibab Plateau, Grand Canyon Country, and parts of Navajo, Apache, Coconino, Graham, Greenlee and Gila counties, among others.
Additional wind alerts are in place for multiple plateaus and mountain zones, and a High Wind Warning is posted for Lake Havasu and Fort Mohave from Sunday evening into Monday morning. Wind advisories cover stretches of the Mogollon Rim, Coconino Plateau, Yavapai County mountains and other high-country corridors.
The extended outlook remains generally dry and warm, with daytime temperatures staying in the 90s and into the low triple digits across lower-elevation deserts. Officials are advising caution given the elevated fire threat and gusty conditions through the weekend.
Local fire and health authorities offer guidance for heat and emergency situations. Heat-related illnesses range from cramps and heavy sweating to heat exhaustion (symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea and cool, moist skin) and heat stroke, which can present with body temperatures above 103°F, confusion, hot dry skin and rapid breathing. Initial treatment steps include moving the person to shade or a cool place, cooling with wet cloths and a fan, offering small sips of water if the person is alert, and calling 911 if symptoms worsen.
Preventive tips emphasize hydration before and during outdoor activity, wearing lightweight light-colored clothing and head protection, carrying a cell phone, hiking with a companion, and notifying someone of your route and expected return time. Residents are encouraged to stay in air-conditioned spaces, locate nearby cooling centers or hydration stations, limit outdoor exertion during midday heat, check on at-risk neighbors or relatives, and monitor local heat risk and UV index information. For road conditions anywhere in Arizona, travelers can call 511 or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623).