Right now, Palm Springs is basically showing off. If you’re checking the current temp Palm Springs CA on this Wednesday, January 14, 2026, you’ll find it sitting at a crisp 60°F. It's night, the sky is clear, and honestly, it’s that perfect "desert chill" that makes you want to sit by a fire pit with a heavy blanket and a decent glass of Cabernet.
But here’s the thing. Palm Springs weather is a bit of a trickster. You look at that 60°F and think, "Okay, cool, it’s a bit nippy." Then you look at the forecast for later today and realize the high is hitting 82°F. That’s a 23-degree swing.
That is massive.
Why the Desert Swing Matters
Most people pack for the desert like it’s a constant sauna. Big mistake. Huge. In the winter—and yeah, January is peak winter here—the sun is your best friend and your worst enemy for packing. When it’s out, it’s 82°F and you’re sweating in your linen shirt. The second it dips behind the San Jacinto Mountains? The temperature drops like a rock.
We aren't just talking about a little breeze. We're talking about a shift from "poolside lounging" to "where did I put my North Face?" in about twenty minutes.
Understanding Current Temp Palm Springs CA and the 2026 Winter Trend
This year has been a bit warmer than the historical average. Usually, Palm Springs sees highs around 71°F in mid-January. We are currently pacing about 11 degrees above that. Why? A strong upper-level ridge is parked over the Southwest. It’s pushing those midday numbers into the 80s, which is great for the tourists but has the locals wondering if we even had a fall this year.
Humidity is sitting at a bone-dry 36% tonight, and it’ll likely drop to about 19% by mid-afternoon. That’s desert life. Your skin will feel it. Your hair will definitely feel it.
- Current Condition: Clear night skies.
- Wind: 3 mph coming from the west (basically a whisper).
- UV Index: 0 right now (obviously), but it’ll hit a 3 today. Don't let the "low" number fool you; the desert sun at 82°F still bites.
The Microclimate Trap
You’ve heard of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, right? People check the current temp Palm Springs CA at the airport and think they’re good for the day. Then they take that ten-minute rotating gondola ride up to 8,500 feet.
Mistake.
Up at Mountain Station, it is easily 30 degrees colder than the valley floor. If it's 82°F downtown, it might be 50°F at the top. There’s often snow up there while people are drinking margaritas by the pool three miles away. It’s wild. If you're heading up there today, bring a real jacket. Not a "LA hoodie," a real jacket.
What to Actually Do Today
With a high of 82°F and zero chance of rain, today is a prime day for the Indian Canyons.
Honestly, the hiking there is better than Joshua Tree when the temps hit the 80s because you actually get some shade from the massive California Fan Palms. If you’re more into the "staying horizontal" vibe, the pool is the move. Most of the boutique hotels like The Colony Palms or Korakia keep their pools heated to about 85°F year-round, which feels like a bath when the air is 82°F.
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Tonight, the low is hitting 59°F. That’s the "sweet spot." It’s cold enough to justify the outdoor heaters at every restaurant on Palm Canyon Drive, but warm enough that you won't be shivering.
Actionable Takeaways for Your Visit
If you're looking at the weather right now and planning your day, keep these three things in mind:
- Hydrate more than you think. 19% humidity means you’re losing moisture just by breathing. If you wait until you’re thirsty, you’re already behind.
- The "Sunset Shift." The sun disappears behind the mountains around 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM. The temperature doesn't slide down; it falls. Have your evening layer ready by 4:15 PM.
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Even at a UV index of 3, the reflection off the light-colored desert sand and concrete increases your exposure.
The current temp Palm Springs CA of 60°F is just the starting point for a beautiful, sun-drenched January day. Enjoy the 82°F peak while it lasts—tomorrow might bring the wind, and in the Coachella Valley, that’s the real game-changer.