Well, Phoenix, it’s that time again. The sun is shining, the temperature is rising, and the desert is reminding us that summer is just around the corner. If you thought you’d get a few more cool spring days, think again! This morning, we kicked off the day at 79°F (26°C), but it won’t stay that way for long. By this afternoon, we’re looking at a hot high of 101°F (38°C), tying a record set back in 2018.
Get Ready for a Scorching Day Ahead
So, what’s in store for the rest of the day? Well, expect the temperature to rise quickly as we head into the afternoon. By noon, it’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an oven outside. We’re used to this kind of heat, but it always catches you off guard at the beginning of the season.
“I swear, every year it feels like we skip spring,” said Jenny, who’s lived in Phoenix for over a decade. “It’s like, one day it’s nice, and the next it’s a hundred degrees.”
For anyone heading outside today, make sure you’re prepared for the heat. Even though it’s still technically spring, the weather feels more like summer. If you have any plans to be outside, especially during the afternoon, make sure to drink lots of water and wear your sunscreen. Trust me, you don’t want to forget it.
Full Sun, No Clouds, and a Whole Lot of Heat
The forecast shows clear skies and full sun all day long. That means no relief from the blazing sun as we go through the afternoon. If you were planning to spend the day outside, be sure to keep your sunscreen handy. And don’t forget your water bottle!
The high UV index today means that even a few minutes outside could leave you with sunburn if you’re not careful. If you’re not used to the heat, you’ll definitely notice how intense it can be. I’ve already heard people say they’re switching their outdoor plans to the early morning or late evening hours to avoid the peak heat.
And if you’re out and about for any extended period, please be aware of how quickly heat exhaustion can sneak up on you. It’s easy to get caught up in the day, but take breaks, stay in the shade when you can, and always stay hydrated.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Seriously, this can’t be emphasized enough—water is your best friend today. Make sure you’re drinking regularly throughout the day. Just waiting until you’re thirsty isn’t enough. I know it sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you’re busy. Drink before you get thirsty, and make sure you’re staying ahead of it. If you’re spending time outside or doing anything active, take frequent breaks to cool off and sip on water.
“Even after living here for years, I still have to remind myself to drink water. The heat sneaks up on you,” said Chris, a local hiker. “You don’t feel it until it’s too late, and you’re already sweating buckets.”
Mild Evening Ahead
Once the sun goes down, things will cool off a bit, but don’t expect it to be cold. Tonight’s low will be around 65°F (19°C), which is still pretty warm by most standards. You can still enjoy an evening outside, maybe on the patio with a cold drink, but keep in mind that even the evening air will still carry that desert warmth. It’s perfect weather for some nighttime star-gazing, but you’ll still feel that lingering warmth.
What’s Next: More Heat Incoming
Unfortunately, if you were hoping for cooler days soon, you might be in for a disappointment. Phoenix is about to experience a serious heatwave that will continue into the weekend. Tomorrow, April 11, we’re looking at highs hitting 102°F (39°C), just barely missing the all-time record for this time of year. And it doesn’t stop there—Saturday, April 12, is also predicted to be in the 100°F (38°C) range. Sunday might offer a little bit of a break with highs around 96°F (36°C), but it’s still going to feel hot.
So, yeah, looks like summer’s jumping the gun this year.
How to Deal with the Heat
For anyone who’s new to the desert heat, or even if you’ve lived here your whole life, here are a few survival tips:
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Stay Indoors During Peak Heat: If you can, avoid being outside between noon and 4 p.m. This is when the sun is the most intense.
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Keep Water Handy: Drink water regularly—don’t wait until you’re thirsty. And if you’re active, drink even more.
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Wear Sunscreen: Yes, even if you’re just running errands or walking to your car. The UV index is off the charts today.
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Check on Vulnerable People: If you have elderly neighbors or relatives, check in on them to make sure they’re staying cool and hydrated.
