Phoenix residents are in for a rare treat—or hassle, depending on how you see it—this week. The Valley of the Sun, known for its blistering heat and dry spells, will experience a much-needed cool-down accompanied by intermittent showers. If you’ve grown accustomed to dry, sunny skies, it’s time to dust off your umbrella and rethink your wardrobe. The weather is shifting, and it could catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. Meteorologists have been tracking the upcoming pattern, and while it’s not expected to bring major flooding, the scattered rain and cooler-than-usual temperatures will be enough to disrupt daily routines. Here’s an in-depth breakdown of what to expect day by day.
Tuesday, February 11
Today will remain pleasant and warm, with a high of around 70°F (21°C) under mostly sunny skies. You’ll get a taste of spring-like weather throughout the day, but by night, temperatures will dip to a low near 49°F (9°C). It’s the calm before the storm—literally. As you enjoy the evening, take note: clouds will slowly start to build overnight.
Wednesday, February 12
This is when things take a noticeable turn. The high will struggle to reach 63°F (17°C), making it feel cooler than what Phoenix residents are used to. The morning should be calm but expect increasing cloud cover as the day progresses. By late morning or early afternoon, there’s a 20% chance of light showers making their way through the city. Winds will stay light, but don’t be surprised if you need a jacket or a raincoat.
Thursday, February 13
The mid-week brings even cooler conditions, with a high of only 68°F (20°C). Skies will remain mostly cloudy, and the chance of rain increases to 40%. You may encounter scattered showers during the day, so plan for wet commutes and slippery roads. Winds will pick up slightly, coming from the southeast in the morning before shifting south later in the day. While this won’t be a full-on storm, it’s enough to cause inconvenience for those who assume the desert is always dry.
Friday, February 14
Rain lovers, rejoice! This could be the wettest day of the week, with an 80% chance of showers expected throughout the day. The high will hover around 70°F (21°C), but intermittent rainfall could keep things feeling cooler. Between a tenth and a quarter inch of rain is likely—enough to leave puddles and potentially cause minor street flooding in low-lying areas. Winds will be steady at 5 to 10 mph, so expect light gusts to accompany the rain.
Saturday, February 15
Finally, a return to Phoenix’s familiar sunny skies. The rain will clear out, making way for a comfortable high of 70°F (21°C). Winds will calm down, and the weekend should feel like a reward for weathering the unpredictable week.
How This Impacts You
For commuters, Thursday and Friday’s rain could lead to slick roads, so it’s important to drive with caution and allow extra time. Those using public transit should monitor updates, as some delays could occur due to weather-related disruptions. Hikers, joggers, and outdoor enthusiasts should consider rescheduling any plans on rainy days, as trails and parks may be wet and slippery. This cooler, rainy spell may be brief, but it’s a reminder that even deserts can surprise us. Stay dry, stay safe, and don’t underestimate how quickly Phoenix’s weather can change!