Scorching temperatures returning to Phoenix area
PHOENIX, Arizona (Thursday, June 27, 2025 – 9:00 a.m. ET) — A powerful ridge of high pressure is making its way into the Desert Southwest, sending temperatures soaring across much of Arizona. The rise in heat will be especially intense across metro Phoenix, where First Alert Weather Days have already been issued from Sunday through Tuesday.
By the end of the weekend, highs are forecast to reach between 110°F and 115°F (43°C–46°C). The National Weather Service has placed an extreme heat watch over the Valley and much of southern Maricopa County, highlighting the elevated danger during this stretch. Pinal County and Pima County, south of Phoenix, will also fall under heat watches, specifically for Monday, which is currently expected to be the peak of this early summer heat wave.
Monsoon signs emerging ahead of the holiday
Despite the oppressive heat, there is growing anticipation around the potential arrival of the monsoon season, which may begin as early as the Fourth of July. A developing tropical storm system in the region could act as a catalyst, pushing monsoonal moisture toward Northern and Southeastern Arizona, where the initial thunderstorms are most likely to develop.
For metro Phoenix, there’s a tentative 20% chance of rainfall around Wednesday, July 3, and Thursday, July 4. However, those projections might be slightly optimistic, as atmospheric models remain uncertain this far out.
Air quality issues persist
In addition to the heat, an ozone alert remains in effect today and Friday. Ozone levels are forecast to climb into the unhealthful range, particularly impacting children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions. Residents across Maricopa County should be mindful of air quality concerns as both temperature and pollution levels continue to rise.
