You’re probably checking the 14 day weather forecast Palm Desert because you’re tired of the slush. Or maybe you're planning that mid-winter golf getaway and need to know if you should pack the heavy fleece or just a light windbreaker. Honestly, the desert is a bit of a tease this time of year. One minute you’re basking in nearly 80-degree sun, and the next, you’re scrambling for a jacket because the shadow of the San Jacinto Mountains just hit your patio.
Right now, as of January 17, 2026, Palm Desert is sitting pretty at a crisp 71°F. It’s sunny. The wind is a gentle 4 mph coming out of the east. Humidity? A bone-dry 12%. It’s basically peak desert living. But if you’re looking at the next two weeks, don’t get too comfortable with that specific number. The desert likes to shift gears.
The Reality of the 14 Day Weather Forecast Palm Desert
Most people think "California desert" and assume it's just a constant heat lamp. That’s a mistake. In January, the temperature swings are wilder than a Coachella lineup.
Today, Saturday, we’re peaking at 79°F with a low of 57°F. That’s a 22-degree drop the moment the sun dips. If you’re out at El Paseo for dinner, you’ll see the "snowbirds" in parkas while the locals are still in vests.
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What to Expect Over the Next Week
Tomorrow, Sunday the 18th, things turn a bit moody. It’s going to be cloudy with a high of 76°F. Not exactly "lay by the pool all day" weather for everyone, but still better than 90% of the country. By Monday, we lose a few more degrees, settling at 73°F.
Here is the quick breakdown of the immediate trend:
- Tuesday, Jan 20: Sunny, high of 71°F, low of 54°F.
- Wednesday, Jan 21: Sunny, high of 69°F, low of 54°F.
- Thursday, Jan 22: Mostly cloudy, dipping to 67°F.
You see the pattern? We’re on a slow slide toward the mid-60s. It’s not "cold," but for Palm Desert, it’s definitely "layering season."
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Why the "Average" Forecast Often Lies
If you look at historical data for Palm Desert in January, you'll see an average high of about 70°F and a low of 44°F. But averages are just math. They don’t tell you about the 2026 reality. We’re actually tracking a bit warmer than usual right now, especially with these overnight lows staying in the mid-50s instead of the mid-40s.
That 10-degree difference in the "low" is the difference between your hibiscus plants surviving or turning into crispy sticks.
Humidity and the "Dry Chill"
With humidity hovering between 11% and 17% for the next several days, the air doesn't hold heat. The second the sun goes behind a cloud, you’ll feel it. This low humidity also means you need to double your water intake. You won't feel yourself sweating because it evaporates instantly. Kinda sneaky, right?
Surviving the Palm Desert Temperature Swing
Let's talk about the back half of the 14 day weather forecast Palm Desert. By next weekend, Saturday the 24th and Sunday the 25th, we are looking at highs around 66°F and 65°F.
Cloud cover is expected to jump up to about 46% by Sunday. If you’re planning on hitting the Bump and Grind Trail or venturing out to Joshua Tree, this is actually the goldilocks zone. You won't overheat on the incline, and the "mostly cloudy" skies provide a natural filter for those harsh desert UV rays—though the UV index is still hitting a 2 or 3, so don't ditch the sunscreen.
Rain? In the Desert?
There is a tiny 10% chance of rain showing up periodically over the next few days. In most places, 10% means "don't worry about it." In Palm Desert, it usually means a three-minute sprinkle that smells amazing (shoutout to the creosote bushes) and then disappears. Don't let it ruin your golf tee time.
Expert Tips for the Next 14 Days
If you’re physically in the Coachella Valley or arriving soon, here’s the ground truth:
- The Shadow Rule: If you are booking an outdoor lunch, ask for a table in the sun. In January, the shade feels 10 degrees colder than the thermometer says.
- Evening Logistics: Sunset is around 5:00 PM. If you’re hiking, be off the trail by 4:30 PM. The temperature drops fast, and the desert gets dark even faster.
- Wind Watch: We’re seeing winds from the North and Northeast at about 3 to 6 mph. It’s negligible now, but keep an eye on the East-facing passes; if those speeds jump to 15+ mph, the dust starts flying.
Looking further out toward January 26th and 27th, we see a slight rebound. Tuesday the 27th is looking sunny with a high of 71°F. It seems the "cool snap" mid-week is just a temporary dip.
Your Palm Desert Action Plan
Instead of just watching the numbers, prepare for the reality of a January in the 92260. Pack a versatile mid-weight jacket for the evenings—something like a Patagonia Nano Puff or a sturdy denim jacket. For the daytime, stick to breathable fabrics.
If you're planning a visit to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, aim for Wednesday or Thursday when the clouds offer some relief from the direct glare. If you're here for the golf, Monday and Tuesday offer the most "consistent" sun for your back nine. Stay hydrated, keep the moisturizer handy for that 12% humidity, and enjoy the fact that you aren't shoveling snow.