Phoenix, Arizona is well-known for its intense summer heat and mild winters.
The hottest month is July, with an average high of 106°F and a low of 85°F.
Visitors and residents alike should be prepared for temperatures consistently above 98°F from late May to mid-September, making it one of the hottest cities in the United States.
When the temperature finally cools down, Phoenix experiences pleasant weather from November to February.
The average daily high during these months stays below 74°F, with January being particularly mild.
Phoenix’s mild winter climate makes it an attractive destination for those looking to escape colder parts of the country.
Rainfall is scarce in Phoenix, contributing to its dry, desert climate.
The months of May and June see the least rainfall, accumulating only about 0.08 inches.
For more detailed information about Phoenix’s weather, visit this comprehensive guide to Phoenix’s climate.
Average Temperature in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, experiences very high temperatures.
The hot season typically lasts from late May to mid-September. During this period, the average daily high temperature is above 98°F.
The hottest month, July, sees highs of around 106°F. At night, the temperature can drop to about 85°F.
In contrast, the cooler months span from late November to late February.
During this time, the daily high temperatures are below 74°F. January is considered the mildest month with average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 67.6°F.
For a clearer look at the monthly averages, the table below provides a summary:
| Month | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| January | 67.6°F | 46°F |
| February | 71°F | 49°F |
| March | 77°F | 54°F |
| April | 85°F | 60°F |
| May | 94°F | 69°F |
| June | 104°F | 78°F |
| July | 106°F | 85°F |
| August | 104°F | 84°F |
| September | 99°F | 77°F |
| October | 88°F | 65°F |
| November | 75°F | 52°F |
| December | 67°F | 45°F |
The months of May and June see the least rainfall, accumulating only about 0.08 inches over approximately 1.3 days.
Due to its arid climate, Phoenix enjoys many sunny days each year, with an annual average of 3832 hours of sunshine. This abundance of sun aligns with the popularly known weather trends in the region.
Average Precipitation in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, experiences low yearly precipitation, which primarily falls as rain, with virtually no snowfall due to its desert climate.
Average Rainfall in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix has minimal rainfall throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is about 8 inches.
Most of the rain falls during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September.
During this period, thunderstorms often occur in the afternoons and evenings, sometimes leading to flash floods.
The driest months are typically April, May, and June, with almost no rain.
The monsoon season contributes significantly to the overall rainfall, often bringing intense but brief rain showers.
Winter months see more rain compared to the spring, with January and February having slightly higher rainfall totals.
Despite this, even the wettest months are relatively dry when compared to other regions. You can expect mostly sunny skies, regardless of the season.
Average Snow in Phoenix, Arizona
Snowfall is extremely rare in Phoenix. The city’s desert climate and low elevation mean that temperatures rarely drop below freezing, making snow almost non-existent.
On the rare occasions it does snow, it is usually light and melts quickly.
While the nearby mountainous areas may receive snow, the city itself remains largely snow-free.
Residents and visitors can enjoy mild winter weather, with average winter high temperatures around 68°F. This makes Phoenix an ideal destination for those looking to escape colder climates. For more information about snow and ice in various regions, you might find interesting articles at ChaseDay.
Average Sun in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it one of the sunniest cities in the United States. This constant exposure to the sun has a significant impact on daily life.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix experiences high levels of daily shortwave solar energy. The city typically receives about 6.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day. These energy levels vary slightly throughout the seasons.
In summer, from June to August, the shortwave solar energy averages around 7.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day.
This high measure is due to long daylight hours and clear skies.
From December to February, winter months bring lower levels of solar energy. During this period, the city still averages about 5.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day.
Even in winter, Phoenix continues to receive substantial sunlight.
This information is useful for those considering solar energy investments in Phoenix.
High average daily shortwave solar energy levels make it an ideal location for solar panels, ensuring efficient energy production year-round.
Average Humidity in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, is known for its dry climate. The average annual relative humidity is about 36%.
Monthly Average Humidity:
- January: 42%
- February: 34%
- March: 31%
- April: 25%
- May: 19%
- June: 19%
- July: 31%
- August: 35%
- September: 33%
- October: 31%
- November: 34%
- December: 51%
December is the most humid month with an average humidity of 51%. The least humid month is June, with an average humidity of 19%.
Humidity Chart:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 42 |
| February | 34 |
| March | 31 |
| April | 25 |
| May | 19 |
| June | 19 |
| July | 31 |
| August | 35 |
| September | 33 |
| October | 31 |
| November | 34 |
| December | 51 |
Phoenix experiences low humidity levels throughout the year, especially in the summer months. Lower humidity can make high temperatures feel less intense, which is typical in the desert regions.
Average Wind in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year. The average wind speed is generally low.
Spring months from March through May typically have light breezes. During this time, wind speeds average around 6 to 8 mph. These mild winds offer a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities.
Summer months, especially from June to August, experience slightly stronger winds, reaching up to 9 mph.
Even though these winds might seem refreshing, they often come with high temperatures, sometimes exceeding 100°F.
Fall, from September to November, sees a return to lighter winds, about 5 to 7 mph. This period provides comfortable conditions for locals and visitors alike.
Winter months, December to February, have the calmest winds on average. Wind speeds usually stay between 4 to 6 mph, contributing to the mild winter weather.
Here is a simple table showing average wind speeds in Phoenix throughout the year:
| Season | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| Spring | 6 – 8 |
| Summer | Up to 9 |
| Fall | 5 – 7 |
| Winter | 4 – 6 |
While Phoenix is known for its hot and dry climate, its wind patterns are relatively calm. For more in-depth information, check out articles on wind.
Average Air Quality in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, is known for its beautiful desert landscape and plentiful sunshine. Despite this, it experiences some challenges with air quality.
The city sees several days each year with unhealthy levels of ozone and PM2.5 particles. From 2016 to 2018, Phoenix had an average of 46.5 days per year with unhealthy air quality (IQAir).
Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures daily air quality. Phoenix often falls into the “Moderate” to “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” categories.
- Good (0-50): Some days
- Moderate (51-100): Common
- Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150): Frequent
- Unhealthy (151-200): Occasionally
Specific Pollutants
Phoenix mainly struggles with high levels of ozone and PM2.5.
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- Ozone: Produced from vehicle emissions and industrial activities, especially on hot days.
- PM2.5: Tiny particles from construction sites, unpaved roads, and fires contribute to this measurement.
Seasonal Variation
Air quality can change with the seasons in Phoenix.
During the summer months, ozone levels often rise due to higher temperatures.
Winter months can bring more PM2.5 pollution due to wood burning and other heating practices.
Monitoring local air quality (AccuWeather) can help residents plan outdoor activities and make healthier decisions year-round.
As of now, the city’s air quality is reported as mostly “Good” (IQAir).
Topography of Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, lies in the Salt River Valley, also known as the “Valley of the Sun.”
The city’s elevation varies but averages around 1,086 feet above sea level.
Surrounded by mountains, Phoenix is within the Sonoran Desert.
Notable Mountains:
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- Camelback Mountain: 2,704 feet
- Piestewa Peak: 2,610 feet
- South Mountain: 2,690 feet
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These peaks provide scenic views and are popular for hiking.
Major Rivers:
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- Salt River: Main river flowing through.
- Gila River: Tributary to the Salt River.
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Both rivers have limited water flow due to dams and evaporation.
Desert Landscape:
Saguaro cacti are common, reflecting a typical desert flora.
Urban Layout:
The city is largely flat, facilitating easy navigation and urban planning.
Soil Composition:
Mostly sandy and loamy, supporting desert vegetation.
Climate Influence:
The topography contributes to extreme summer temperatures and mild winters.
Table: Elevation Points
| Location | Elevation (feet) |
|---|---|
| Downtown Phoenix | 1,086 |
| Camelback Mountain | 2,704 |
| Piestewa Peak | 2,610 |
| South Mountain | 2,690 |
This blend of flat valley areas with mountainous surroundings shapes Phoenix’s unique topography.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, experiences a variety of extreme weather events.
The city’s climate is marked by sizzling summers and mild winters.
Heat Waves:
Droughts:
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- Phoenix has faced significant droughts, contributing to the dry and arid conditions.
- Between 1980 and 2024, the state had 15 major drought events with economic losses topping $1 billion each.
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Flooding:
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- Monsoon rain can lead to flash flooding.
- The combination of rapid rainfall and dry ground conditions often results in sudden floods. This can impact transportation and property.
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- Wildfires are another concern due to the dry climate.
- From 1980 to 2024, Arizona experienced 14 major wildfire events, causing extensive damage to land and property.
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Low Nighttime Temperatures:
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- During the hottest parts of summer, nighttime temperatures sometimes stay above 90°F.
- For example, in 2023, Phoenix recorded 28 days with lows at or above this level.
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Summary of Major Events:
| Event Type | Frequency (1980-2024) | Notable Instances |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Waves | Frequent | July 2023 |
| Droughts | 15 events | |
| Flooding | 3 events | |
| Wildfires | 14 events |
Best Time of the Year to Visit Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix has different attractions and conditions in each season.
Visitors can enjoy mild temperatures in spring and winter, while summer is hot. Fall provides a calmer experience with cooling temperatures.
What Is Phoenix, Arizona Like in Spring
Spring in Phoenix spans March through May.
During this time, temperatures range from the 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
The weather is dry and sunny, making it great for outdoor activities like hiking and golfing.
Flowers start to bloom in the desert, adding color to the landscape.
Spring is also less crowded than winter because many tourists leave after the cooler months.
This season lacks the summer heat, making it a preferred time for those wanting to explore the area comfortably.
What Is Phoenix, Arizona Like in Summer
Summer in Phoenix is from June to August.
Expect very high temperatures, often exceeding 100°F.
This time of year is the hottest, with June and July being the peak months.
Outdoor activities are limited to early mornings or late evenings due to the extreme heat.
Many tourists avoid Phoenix in summer, so you might find lower room rates.
Swimming pools and indoor attractions like museums become popular.
Hydration and sun protection are crucial if you plan to visit during this season.
What Is Phoenix, Arizona Like in Fall
Fall includes the months of September through November.
Temperatures start high in September, often over 90°F, but drop to the 70s by November.
The cooling weather makes it another popular time for tourists.
Clear skies and pleasant temperatures are ideal for outdoor events.
The fall season attracts visitors who missed the spring or winter rush.
It also provides a quieter, more relaxed experience than the summer months.
What Is Phoenix, Arizona Like in Winter
Winter in Phoenix lasts from December to February. You’ll find temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s during the day.
Nights can be cooler, dropping to the 40s.
Winter draws many visitors seeking to escape colder climates.
This season is perfect for outdoor activities since the weather is mild and skies are usually clear.
The city is lively with events, festivals, and outdoor markets. It is the busiest tourist season, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable.