Excrutiating Heat Warnings and Thunderstorm Chances: Phoenix Weather Update

Residents are advised to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, as temperatures in the region will remain well above 110 degrees.Photo byAndrew DesLauriersonUnsplash

The National Weather Service has issued Excessive Heat Warnings for the Phoenix metro and surrounding lower desert regions, as temperatures are expected to soar to between 112-114 degrees through Tuesday. This extreme heat, driven by a strengthening high-pressure system, is likely to persist with minimal relief in sight.

Residents are advised to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, as temperatures in the region will remain well above 110 degrees. The Excessive Heat Warnings also extend to San Carlos and areas along the Lower Colorado River Valley and the Salton Sea.

As the week progresses, conditions are expected to shift. While patchy clouds and limited moisture around a subtropical high-pressure system have kept thunderstorms minimal so far, the situation is set to change. From Wednesday, increased moisture and a weakening ridge will bring a higher likelihood of thunderstorms, particularly in higher terrain areas. Chances for showers and storms will rise to 30-50% in western to central Arizona, with potential activity extending into the Colorado River Valley.

By Thursday, the focus will shift to drier conditions as a Pacific Northwest trough deepens, pushing the subtropical high-pressure system back into the southern Plains. This change will lead to a decrease in thunderstorm activity and a return to hotter, drier weather by the weekend. Despite a slight cooldown mid-week, temperatures will remain above normal with a warming trend expected as the weekend approaches.