Phoenix Just Recorded Something That Has Happened Only Once Before

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Phoenix

The Valley continues to experience unusually high summer temperatures as Phoenix set a new daily heat record on Friday. The temperature at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport climbed to 117 degrees during the afternoon, surpassing the previous daily record of 116 degrees set in 2023. The milestone comes as an extreme heat warning remains in effect across the region, with hot conditions expected to continue through Monday evening.

Record

According to the National Weather Service, the temperature at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport reached 117 degrees at 3:14 p.m. Friday. This exceeded the previous daily record of 116 degrees, which was established in 2023.

The new record reflects the ongoing stretch of above-average temperatures affecting the Phoenix metropolitan area this summer.

Temperature DetailsReading
Friday High117°F
Previous Daily Record116°F (2023)
Thursday High114°F
Friday Morning Low97°F
Normal Low85°F

Warning

An extreme heat warning remains in place for the Valley through 8 p.m. Monday. Forecasters expect afternoon temperatures to stay between 112 and 117 degrees over the weekend.

Weather officials advise residents to remain aware of the prolonged heat, as extended exposure to high temperatures can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Overnight

The heat has continued well into the nighttime hours. After reaching 114 degrees on Thursday, temperatures remained unusually warm overnight.

Friday morning’s low reached 97 degrees, tying the warmest overnight low ever recorded in Phoenix. That record was first set on July 19, 2023. For comparison, the average low temperature for this time of year is 85 degrees.

Closures

The City of Phoenix has continued temporary hiking trail closures during the extreme heat warning to reduce the risk of heat-related emergencies.

The following hiking areas are closed daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. while the warning remains active:

Closed Hiking Areas
Camelback Mountain
Piestewa Peak
South Mountain Trails

Officials recommend postponing hikes until temperatures become safer.

Safety

Public health officials encourage residents to follow basic heat safety practices throughout the warning period. Staying hydrated, reducing outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and spending time in air-conditioned spaces can help lower the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Recommended safety measures include:

  • Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
  • Limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
  • Take frequent breaks in cool or air-conditioned places.
  • Never leave children or pets inside unattended vehicles.
  • Check on older adults, neighbors, and others who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.

Relief

Cooling centers and hydration stations remain available across the Valley through the Salvation Army and the Maricopa County Heat Relief Network.

These locations provide residents with access to water, air-conditioned spaces, and other resources during periods of extreme heat.

Phoenix’s latest temperature record highlights the persistence of this summer’s heat across the Valley. With the extreme heat warning expected to remain in place through Monday evening, officials continue to encourage residents to take precautions, stay informed about weather updates, and make use of available cooling resources when needed.

FAQs

What temperature did Phoenix reach?

Phoenix reached 117 degrees on Friday.

When does the heat warning end?

It remains in effect until 8 p.m. Monday.

Which hiking trails are closed?

Camelback, Piestewa Peak, and South Mountain trails.

What was Phoenix’s overnight low?

The overnight low was 97 degrees.

Where are cooling centers available?

Through the Salvation Army and Maricopa County Heat Relief Network.

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