Hot and Windy: Coachella Valley Sees Continued Heat and Gusty Winds into the Weekend

Hot and Windy: Coachella Valley Sees Continued Heat and Gusty Winds into the Weekend

Coachella Valley, CA — Happy Thursday, desert dwellers! It’s another toasty day across the valley, with temperatures peaking at a blistering 106°F, making it 10 degrees above the seasonal average—a near replica of Wednesday’s heat. While we’re not breaking any records (the highest for this date remains 113°F set back in 2000), it’s still hot enough to make your afternoon errands feel like a trek across the sun.

The heat isn’t the only story today. Winds are picking up, especially in the usual breezy spots. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for the San Gorgonio Pass, areas along Highway 62 to Morongo Valley, and Desert Hot Springs. That advisory kicks in this evening and lasts through 3 a.m. Saturday, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph in some spots. If you're commuting through North Palm Springs, Gene Autry Trail, Palm Drive, or Desert Hot Springs, be prepared for reduced visibility and challenging driving conditions due to blowing sand and dust.

As we look toward the weekend, a slight cool-down is on the horizon—but don't break out the jackets just yet. Saturday’s highs will dip to the 96–100°F range, still warmer than the average for this time of year, which is around 95°F. The slight drop is thanks to a weakening ridge of high pressure shifting east and a trough of low pressure brushing past to our north from the Pacific Northwest.

You may also notice some high clouds and a bit of atmospheric moisture continuing into Saturday, though they won’t be doing much to cut the heat. Still, it’s a minor reprieve before temperatures climb back into the triple digits by next week.

7-Day Outlook Highlights:

• Friday: 103°F with gusty winds

• Saturday: 97°F with breezy conditions

• Sunday through next week: Return of triple-digit highs

Whether you’re hitting the road or staying local, keep hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat, and stay weather-aware—especially with those gusty conditions blowing through.