You’ve seen the postcards. Those retro-cool mid-century houses, the swaying palms, and a sky so blue it looks like it was painted by a set designer. People flock here because they think it's a perpetual sauna. But honestly, if you’re looking at the palm springs ca extended weather forecast right now, you might be in for a surprise.
It’s currently January 15, 2026, and the desert is doing that thing it does where it plays with your expectations. Today is a gorgeous 81°F with a light 3 mph breeze coming off the south. It’s "mostly sunny," which in Palm Springs speak basically means "perfect." But don't let the afternoon warmth fool you; the humidity is sitting at a bone-dry 16%. When the sun dips behind the San Jacinto Mountains this evening, that heat is going to evaporate faster than a spilled martini by the pool.
The 10-Day Reality Check
If you are planning a trip for the next week, you’re looking at a remarkably stable run of weather, but with some subtle shifts. We’re holding onto those 81°F highs through Friday, January 16. After that, things start to shave off a few degrees. By Sunday, the high drops to 77°F, and we might actually see a stray cloud or two with a 10% chance of rain.
Yeah, I know. Ten percent. In the desert, that’s basically just the sky teasing us.
By next week—specifically Wednesday, January 21, and Thursday, January 22—the highs will hover around 76°F or 77°F. The nights? They’re staying crisp. Expect lows between 53°F and 56°F. It’s the kind of weather where you need a swimsuit at 2:00 PM and a puffer jacket by 6:00 PM.
Why the "Extended" Part Matters
Most people check the weather for their arrival date and pack accordingly. Big mistake. The palm springs ca extended weather forecast is notorious for these "micro-fluctuations." One day it's 80°F, and three days later, a cold front pushes through the pass, and suddenly you’re shivering at an outdoor dinner in 50-degree air.
Historically, January is actually one of our coldest months. While we’re seeing 80s today, the average high for this time of year is usually closer to 70°F. We are currently riding a bit of a warm wave. If you look further out toward the end of January, the Almanac suggests we might hit some rainier periods.
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What to actually pack based on the data:
- The Layering Rule: Since the gap between the daily high (81°F) and the nightly low (58°F) is over 20 degrees, layers aren't just a suggestion; they're a survival strategy for your social life.
- Sun Protection: The UV index is hitting a 3 today. It sounds low, but the desert sun hits different. You’ll burn before you realize you’re even hot.
- Hydration Gear: With humidity at 16%, you are essentially a human raisin. Drink more water than you think you need.
The Weird Stuff: Wind and Pass Pressure
The one thing the standard palm springs ca extended weather forecast rarely captures well is the wind coming through the San Gorgonio Pass. Right now, it's calm—just 3 to 6 mph. But keep an eye on those northwest shifts. When the wind picks up to 10 mph or more, it carries the chill of the mountains.
Saturday, January 24, is looking like a bit of a breezy day with 10 mph winds. That’s enough to make pool lounging feel a bit "refreshing" (read: cold) even if the sun is out.
Actionable Tips for Your Desert Stay
If you’re looking at the forecast and trying to figure out your itinerary, here is the move. Schedule your hiking and Coachella Valley Preserve walks for the mornings when it’s in the 60s. Save the pool for that 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM window when we’re hitting those peak 80°F temps.
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If you’re staying past the 25th, watch for the humidity to climb. It's predicted to jump to 22% or higher, which often precedes a change in the pressure system.
Basically, the desert is currently in its prime. It’s warm, it’s dry, and the skies are clear. Just don't forget that jacket for the evening. You’ve been warned.
To make the most of this window, book your outdoor dining reservations for no later than 6:00 PM to catch the last of the daily warmth, and always ask for a table near a space heater—even if it's 81°F when you call to reserve.