Honestly, if you're standing in the middle of a desert wash right now, you’ve probably already noticed it. The air in Tucson is doing that thing where it feels like a warm hug from an old friend.
Today, Thursday, January 15, 2026, the temperature in Tucson is hitting a high of 75°F.
That might sound like "just another nice day" to people back east, but for locals, it's basically the goldilocks zone. We are talking about a full 10 degrees above the typical January average of 65°F. It's weird. It's beautiful. It's why we live here.
What is the temperature in Tucson today and why does it feel different?
Right now, as the sun starts to dip, the current reading is sitting at 57°F.
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The wind is barely a whisper, coming out of the north at a measly 4 mph. It’s clear. No clouds. Just that deep, indigo desert sky that makes you want to pull over on Speedway just to take a photo.
But don’t let that 75°F peak fool you into thinking you can leave the house in just a t-shirt all night. Desert air is thin. It doesn't hold onto heat. Once that sun is gone, the floor drops out. Tonight, we are looking at a low of 45°F.
That’s a 30-degree swing.
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You’ll go from needing sunglasses and a light polo at 2:00 PM to hunting for that denim jacket by 7:00 PM. It’s the classic Tucson "layer or suffer" scenario.
The humidity (or lack thereof)
If you’re visiting from Florida or Houston, you’re probably wondering where all the moisture went. Humidity is at 40% right now, but the daily forecast shows it dropping as low as 24%.
Basically, your skin is going to feel it. Drink more water than you think you need. Seriously. Even if you aren't sweating, the desert is literally pulling moisture out of you.
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Today’s Forecast Breakdown
- High Temperature: 75°F
- Low Temperature: 45°F
- Conditions: Sunny all day, clear all night.
- UV Index: 3 (Moderate—you can still get a burn if you’re out hiking Tumamoc at noon).
- Precipitation: 0%. We aren't seeing a drop of rain today.
- Wind: Southeast at 9 mph during the day, calming to 4 mph from the north tonight.
Why this January is sticking out
Historical data from the National Weather Service usually puts us much lower this time of year. Usually, we’re dodging frost warnings or at least seeing more "chilly" 60-degree days.
Seeing 75°F on the thermometer in mid-January is a treat, but it’s also a reminder of the dry winter the Intermountain West has been having. According to recent drought updates, this warm streak is part of a larger trend across Arizona and New Mexico. Great for a patio lunch at Fourth Avenue, but maybe a bit concerning for the mountain snowpack up on Mount Lemmon.
Speaking of Mount Lemmon, if you’re planning on heading up the Catalina Highway today, remember that for every 1,000 feet you climb, you lose about 3 to 5 degrees. While it's 75°F downtown, it’s going to be a whole different world at the top.
Survival tips for a 75-degree January day
- The Shade Rule: In Tucson, the "temperature" is what it feels like in the shade. If you’re standing in direct sunlight, it’s going to feel more like 82°F. Find a mesquite tree.
- Hydration is non-negotiable: With 24% humidity, you won't feel "sweaty." You'll just feel tired. Carry a flask.
- The Sunset Pivot: The temperature will start dropping fast around 5:30 PM. If you're out for dinner, grab a table near a space heater or bring a sweater.
Enjoy the sun while it's out. 75 degrees in January is a gift that doesn't always last, and with the clear skies tonight, the stargazing is going to be top-tier. Grab a chair, head away from the city lights toward the Saguaro National Park West, and just look up.
Next Steps for Today:
Check your tire pressure. These big temperature swings between the 45°F morning and 75°F afternoon can actually trigger your car’s TPMS light. If you're hiking, stick to the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak UV window.