Phoenix is kicking off the week with sunny skies and a high near 88°F on Monday, May 18, with a light southwest breeze of 5 to 10 mph and occasional gusts up to 20 mph. The National Weather Service says today is the coolest day you’ll see for the next week — running 4 to 7 degrees below normal — so get outside and make the most of it before the heat comes roaring back. Stay current with the Phoenix weather forecast throughout the week.
Today’s Setup
A cold front swept through the region overnight, nudging those below-normal temps into the Valley. The strongest winds hit southeast California, where a Wind Advisory was in effect through 11 AM MST for gusts up to 35-50 mph, but Phoenix gets the pleasant side of the deal. One thing to watch: hazy skies through the morning, caused by dust lofted across California and Nevada during the frontal passage. It’s not a health emergency — just notice that the horizon looks a little milky. Overnight lows settle near a comfortable 65°F.
Best Window To Be Outside
Honestly, most of the day works. Morning is golden — hikers targeting Camelback Mountain or South Mountain should aim for the trail before 10 AM. Golfers, this is legitimately one of the better days of the month: low humidity, light winds, and temps in the upper 80s. Throw on some golf shorts men and enjoy the round. Afternoon gusts near 20 mph could nudge your approach shots, but nothing deal-breaking. Check out our outdoor gear deals for more ways to make the most of the season.
Allergies and Haze
Today’s drifting California dust, layered on top of late-spring pollen, is a rough combo for sensitive sinuses. Keep some Zyrtec 24 hour allergy 90 count on hand before you head out, especially if you’re spending a few hours in the yard or on the course. Protecting skin is equally important — grab a UPF 50+ fishing shirt for just $6.50 while that deal lasts.
Events: D-Backs, Mercury, and Demi Lovato
Big week in the Valley. The Arizona Diamondbacks host the San Francisco Giants at Chase Field on Tuesday, May 19 and Wednesday, May 20. With Tuesday’s high near 92°F, Chase Field’s retractable roof and climate control will be a gift — but pre-game tailgating outside will be warm and energetic. Show up in your Arizona Diamondbacks jersey and Arizona Diamondbacks fitted cap. Get tickets on SeatGeek before the series sells out.
Also on Tuesday, May 19, the Demi Lovato “It’s Not That Deep Tour” lands at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale. Warm evening temps make for a fun night out — pick up a Demi Lovato t-shirt and Find tickets on StubHub. Same night, the Phoenix Mercury face the Toronto Tempo at Mortgage Matchup Center — indoor and comfortable.
Fire Up the Grill Tonight
Clear skies and a low around 65°F make tonight a backyard cooking dream. Burgers, steaks, or grilled chicken with corn on the cob are all in play. Make sure your grill brush and scraper set is ready, and use an instant-read meat thermometer to nail that perfect doneness every time. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.
Next Few Days
Tuesday climbs to near 92°F under more sunny skies with nearly calm winds. From there it’s a steady march upward — the National Weather Service projects highs approaching 100°F again by the weekend. No rain in the 7-day forecast, just classic late-May desert sunshine. Enjoy this brief, comfortable stretch while Phoenix still lets you.
