Summary
Arizona is experiencing unusually warm winter temperatures, breaking previous heat records. In December, cities like Phoenix recorded temperatures far above normal, with a significant high-pressure system being the main cause.
Key Facts
- Phoenix reached 81 degrees on December 15, 2025, breaking a record set in 1942 and matched in 1969.
- On December 14, Phoenix reached 82 degrees at Sky Harbor International Airport, surpassing a 2010 record.
- El Centro recorded 82 degrees, beating a 1950 record.
- Typical December highs in Phoenix are in the mid-60s; these recent highs are 10-20 degrees above average.
- A high-pressure system is causing the warm, dry conditions across the region.
- Meteorologists expect temperatures to remain high in the upper 70s and low 80s for the rest of the week.
- Cooler temperatures might return near Christmas if a new weather system develops off the West Coast.
