Honestly, if you're looking at the 7 day forecast for phoenix az right now, you might think the local meteorologists are playing a prank. It’s mid-January. We should be digging for sweaters or at least pretending it’s winter. Instead, Phoenix is putting on a masterclass in "Perpetual Spring."
The data doesn't lie. Today, Thursday, January 15, 2026, we’re sitting at a high of 78°F. That’s not a typo. While the rest of the country is likely scraping frost off windshields, we’re dealing with a north wind so lazy it’s only clocking 1 mph. It’s basically a stagnant, beautiful desert bubble.
Why the "Winter Chill" is Basically a Myth This Week
People come to Arizona in January expecting a crisp desert morning and maybe a light jacket for lunch. Kinda. But this week? You’ve got a better chance of seeing a yeti on Camelback Mountain than needing a heavy parka.
The trend is pretty clear. We’re seeing a run of days where the "lows" are actually what most northern states would call a perfect summer afternoon.
- Friday, January 16: Still sunny. High of 77°F. Low of 51°F.
- Saturday, January 17: High of 75°F. The east wind stays gentle at 4 mph.
- Sunday, January 18: A few clouds creep in, but it’s still 75°F.
Basically, the urban heat island effect is doing its thing. Experts like Chris Dunn have noted that Phoenix is effectively losing its meteorological winter. In the last decade, Sky Harbor has only hit the freezing mark twice. Think about that. Two times. This week is a perfect example of that warming trend in action.
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7 day forecast for phoenix az: Breaking Down the Numbers
If you’re planning a hike or a round of golf, you need the nitty-gritty.
Monday, January 19, which is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is looking mostly cloudy with a high of 75°F. There’s a tiny 10% chance of rain, but don't hold your breath. It’s more likely to be one of those "dry rain" situations where you see a few drops on your windshield and that’s it.
By Tuesday, January 20, we’re back to mostly sunny skies and 76°F. The humidity is hovering around 21%, which is the sweet spot for feeling comfortable without your skin turning into parchment paper.
Wednesday, January 21 rounds out the week at 75°F. The consistency is almost boring, honestly. But for anyone visiting, it’s paradise.
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The Misconception of "Desert Cold"
There's this idea that as soon as the sun goes down, the temperature drops off a cliff. While that happens in the open desert, the urban core of Phoenix stays remarkably insulated. This week, our lows are staying consistently between 50°F and 54°F.
You'll see locals in North Face jackets the second it hits 60, but don't let them fool you. It's gorgeous. The UV index is staying low—around a 3—which means you can actually enjoy the sun without feeling like you're being microwaved, a rare treat for Valley residents who usually spend June through September hiding in the A/C.
Real Talk: How to Plan Your Week
If you're heading out, keep it simple. Layers are your best friend, but keep them light.
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- Morning (7 AM - 9 AM): It’ll be around 53°F. A light hoodie or a long-sleeve tee is plenty.
- Midday (11 AM - 3 PM): This is the danger zone for overheating if you over-dressed. At 78°F, you want short sleeves.
- Evening (6 PM onwards): Sunset is around 5:43 PM. Once that sun dips, the east wind (about 4 mph) might make it feel a bit brisk, so keep that hoodie handy.
The air is dry, with humidity sitting near 17% to 25% most of the week. Drink more water than you think you need. Even at 75 degrees, the desert air saps moisture out of you like a sponge.
This isn't just a "nice week." It's an anomaly that’s becoming the new normal. For anyone following the 7 day forecast for phoenix az, the big takeaway is that winter has effectively taken a sabbatical. Take advantage of it before the inevitable 110-degree days return.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Prep your gear: If you're hiking Piestewa or Camelback, go between 8 AM and 11 AM to catch the transition from 60 to 75 degrees.
- Sun protection: Even with a UV index of 3, the Arizona sun is direct. Wear a hat if you're outdoors for more than an hour.
- Water intake: Aim for at least 64 ounces of water daily this week, as the low humidity (17%) will dehydrate you faster than you realize in these mild temperatures.