Phoenix, Arizona is the largest city in the Sonoran Desert and the most populous state capital in the United States. It is notable for its extreme hot desert climate, which defines the city's environment and lifestyle.
The city's weather is significant for its intensity and records. Phoenix experiences the most sunshine of any major city on Earth, with long, extremely hot summers where temperatures frequently exceed 100°F (38°C). It holds the record for the highest average summer temperatures among major U.S. cities and has recorded an all-time high of 122°F (50°C).
Recently, Phoenix weather has been in the news due to an unusual shift from its characteristic dry and sunny conditions. Multiple local news sources have reported on a period of rainy weather and cooler temperatures affecting the region. These reports indicate showers and forecasts for continued precipitation, a notable occurrence during the Thanksgiving travel period.
This recent weather activity highlights a contrast to the city's typical arid climate, drawing attention to short-term seasonal variations within the long-term context of its famously hot and sunny environment.
Latest related news
- Phoenix Weather Today: Showers Build Tonight as Early Thanksgiving Travel Week Begins - Country Herald 2025-11-17 18:46 · Country Herald
- Evening Weather Forecast - 11/16/25 - FOX 10 Phoenix 2025-11-17 08:20 · FOX 10 Phoenix
- Rain chances and cooler temperatures forecast in Phoenix area to continue through week - azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic 2025-11-17 06:50 · azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic
- Rainy weather shifts from Phoenix to northern Arizona as another round looms next week - AZ Family 2025-11-17 00:56 · AZ Family
- Valley to dry out before possible return of wet weather to Phoenix forecast - KTAR News 92.3 FM 2025-11-16 23:48 · KTAR News 92.3 FM
- Early morning rain covers parts of Phoenix area - AZ Family 2025-11-16 21:39 · AZ Family
- Weekend storms start to bring wet weather to parts of Valley - KTAR News 92.3 FM 2025-11-16 06:03 · KTAR News 92.3 FM
- Heavy rain, cooler temps expected for metro Phoenix. Here's when the storms will hit - azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic 2025-11-15 19:06 · azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic
- Breezy start to Saturday with rain likely in afternoon in Phoenix area - AZ Family 2025-11-15 12:41 · AZ Family
- Arizona weather forecast: Weekend storm to bring rain, snow to parts of the state - FOX 10 Phoenix 2025-11-14 22:56 · FOX 10 Phoenix