You've probably seen the postcard. Bright blue skies, palm trees swaying, and a pool that looks like a liquid sapphire. People think Palm Springs is just "hot" all the time. Honestly, that’s a huge mistake. If you’re looking at the palm springs 10 day weather forecast right now, you’re likely seeing a mix of gorgeous sunshine and some surprisingly chilly numbers.
It’s January 16, 2026. Right now, it's a beautiful 74°F outside with 17% humidity. Basically perfect, right? But if you don’t look closer at the data, you’re going to end up shivering by 5:00 PM. The desert is a mood swinger.
The 10-Day Reality Check
Let's get into the actual numbers for the next week and a half. Today is the peak. We’re hitting a high of 79°F. It’s glorious. But don't get too comfortable. By Wednesday, January 21, the high drops to 67°F and the clouds move in.
That’s a 12-degree swing in just a few days.
Here is how the next few days are actually shaking out:
Saturday is looking mostly sunny with a high of 77°F, but the low plunges to 52°F. Sunday, things start to cool off more significantly with a high of 70°F. Monday through Wednesday, you're looking at highs between 72°F and 67°F.
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The "mostly sunny" label can be a bit of a trap. Even when it's 70°F, if that desert wind kicks up—and we're seeing some northwest gusts around 7 to 9 mph this weekend—it feels much cooler than the thermometer says.
Why the Sun is a Liar in January
The sun sets behind Mt. San Jacinto early. Because the city is tucked right against the base of the mountain, the "Golden Hour" ends abruptly. One minute you’re basking in 75-degree warmth, and the next, the shadow hits, and the temperature drops 10 degrees in what feels like seconds.
You need to plan for "The Shadow."
If you're out at Villagefest on Thursday night, the high for that day is only 67°F. By the time you're walking the street fair, it’ll be in the 50s. If you’re wearing a tank top because you saw "Palm Springs" on the map, you’re going to have a bad time.
Rain in the Desert? Sorta.
Most people think it never rains here. Well, the palm springs 10 day weather forecast shows a persistent 10% chance of rain for several nights coming up—specifically tonight, Saturday, and again middle of next week.
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Is it going to be a monsoon? No.
But 10% in the desert often means "virga"—rain that evaporates before it hits the ground—or a light sprinkle that makes the creosote bushes smell amazing. It’s a specific smell, kinda like wet pavement mixed with herbal tea. It's worth catching if you can. Humidity stays low, mostly in the 16% to 23% range, though it might spike to 32% by next Friday.
Packing for the "Two-Season" Day
Expert travelers know that a January trip to the desert requires two completely different wardrobes.
- The Daytime Kit: Shorts, linen shirts, and definitely a swimsuit. Even if it's 67°F, the UV index is around 2 or 3. That desert sun is strong. You’ll feel warm enough for a dip if the pool is heated.
- The Post-4 PM Kit: This is where people fail. You need a denim jacket, a medium-weight sweater, or even a light down vest. Locals (I’m looking at you, full-time residents) are already in puffers and beanies when it hits 60°F.
If you're heading up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, forget everything I just said. It can be 30 degrees colder at the top. If it’s 70°F downtown, it could be 40°F and snowing at Mountain Station. Pack a real coat for that.
Strategic Moves for Your Trip
Don't let a "cloudy" forecast for Wednesday, January 21, ruin your vibes. Use those cooler, 67-degree days for hiking the Museum Trail or exploring Indian Canyons.
Hiking when it's 85°F is a recipe for heatstroke. Hiking when it's 68°F is peak desert living.
Watch the wind direction. When it comes from the northwest, like it will at 9 mph this Saturday, it’s coming through the San Gorgonio Pass. That’s a natural wind tunnel. It brings "clean" air but it also carries a bite.
Actionable Next Steps:
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- Check your hotel's pool heating policy; a 70°F day needs a heated pool to be usable.
- Make outdoor dinner reservations for no later than 6:00 PM if you want to avoid the deep evening chill.
- Pack at least one pair of closed-toe shoes; sandals are great until your toes go numb at an outdoor fire pit.
The palm springs 10 day weather forecast is calling for a beautiful, albeit cooling, trend. Grab your layers and enjoy the shade.