Phoenix AZ – February 28, 2026 | By STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
WHAT’S HAPPENING
When did Phoenix record its first 90-degree day of 2026?
Phoenix registered its first 90-degree day of 2026 on Friday, February 27, 2026, a date that tied the monthly record high.
What was the temperature on February 27, 2026, in Phoenix?
The temperature in Phoenix reached 92 degrees Fahrenheit on February 27, 2026, tying the all-time February record high set in 1986.
Why is Phoenix experiencing such warm temperatures in February 2026?
The unusually warm temperatures are attributed to a strong ridge of high pressure settled over the region, contributing to an exceptionally warm winter.
When does Phoenix typically experience its first 90-degree day?
Historically, Phoenix experiences its first 90-degree day around March 30, making the February 27, 2026 date significantly earlier than average.
Phoenix experienced its first 90-degree day of the year on February 27, 2026, tying a monthly record. This heatwave positions February 2026 to be the warmest on record for Phoenix, with temperatures expected to remain in the 90s through the weekend. This early summer-like weather is attributed to a strong ridge of high pressure over the region.
Phoenix has registered its first 90-degree day of the year on February 27, 2026, marking an exceptionally early arrival of summer-like temperatures. This event tied the monthly record and is part of a broader weather pattern that positions February 2026 to become the warmest February ever recorded in the city’s history. Temperatures are expected to continue in the 90s through the weekend, challenging daily record highs and indicating unusually warm conditions for this time of year.
Record-Breaking February Temperatures
The temperature reached 92 degrees on Friday, February 27, 2026, which not only marked the first 90-degree day but also officially tied the all-time high temperature record for February in Phoenix. This record was previously set on February 27, 1986, also at 92 degrees. Daily record highs are anticipated to be either tied or broken throughout the weekend, with forecasts indicating high temperatures remaining in the low 90s for both February 28 and March 1.
Phoenix Experiences Its Warmest Winter on Record
This early surge of heat is a component of a broader warm pattern that is making February 2026 the warmest February recorded. Furthermore, this prolonged period of warmth is expected to establish the 2025-2026 meteorological winter, encompassing December, January, and February, as the warmest on record for Phoenix. December 2025 was documented as Phoenix’s hottest December ever, and January 2026 ranked as the fourth-hottest January. The average winter temperature for Phoenix since the 1990s has been just under 58 degrees, while this winter’s average has been nearly 64 degrees.
Understanding the Unusual Warmth and Outlook
The significantly above-normal temperatures are attributed to a strong ridge of high pressure settled over the region. While a slight moderation in temperatures is projected for midweek, they are still expected to remain above the typical seasonal averages. Historically, Phoenix experiences its first 90-degree day around March 30, and sustained triple-digit temperatures typically arrive much later in the year, usually in late May or June.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of First 90-Degree Day of 2026 | February 27, 2026 |
| Temperature on February 27, 2026 | 92°F (tied record) |
| Previous February Record High | 92°F on February 27, 1986 |
| Status of February 2026 | Poised to be the warmest February on record |
| Forecast for February 28 – March 1, 2026 | Temperatures in the low 90s expected |
| Overall Winter Status (Dec 2025 – Feb 2026) | Likely the warmest meteorological winter on record |
| Average Date for First 90-Degree Day | March 30 |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.