Honestly, if you stepped outside in Mesa this morning, you probably felt that crisp desert air that makes Arizona winters famous. But don't let the morning chill fool you. Weather today in Mesa is pulling a bit of a fast one on us, swinging from a cozy low to a high that feels a lot more like early spring than mid-January.
We’re looking at a high of 79°F.
That’s not just "warm" for January; it’s nearly 12 degrees above the historical average high of 67°F for this time of year. If you’re a local, you know the drill—hoodie at 7:00 AM, shorts by noon, and back to the hoodie once the sun ducks behind the Superstition Mountains.
The Numbers You Actually Need
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what’s happening outside right now. The current temperature is sitting at a comfortable 63°F as we head into the night. It’s clear out there, though we’ve got some periodic clouds rolling through just to keep things interesting.
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If you’re planning on a late-night run or taking the dog out, here’s the breakdown:
- Today's High: 79°F (Sunny)
- Tonight's Low: 51°F (Clear)
- Humidity: Kinda low, around 27% to 34%—classic dry desert vibes.
- Wind: Barely a breeze, coming from the northeast at about 2 to 7 mph.
Basically, it's a "Goldilocks" day. Not too hot, definitely not cold, and just enough sun to make everyone in the Midwest deeply jealous of your Instagram feed.
Is This "Normal" for Mesa?
Not really. While we love our sun, a 79-degree day in mid-January is pushing it. Historically, Mesa usually hovers in the mid-60s this month. According to data from the National Weather Service and historical archives like WeatherSpark, January 4th is typically our coldest day of the year. We’re about ten days past that, and instead of a slow climb, we’ve spiked.
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Why does it matter? Well, for one, the UV index is sitting at a 2. That sounds low, but for those of us with "desert skin," it’s still enough to catch a bit of color if you’re out at Riverview Park for three hours without a hat. Also, that 10% chance of rain during the day? Don't hold your breath. It’s mostly just "hopeful" moisture that likely won't hit the pavement.
Air Quality and Breathing Room
Surprisingly, for a day this warm and still, the air isn't too bad. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is currently sitting in the "Good" range, hovering around 28 to 38 depending on which part of town you’re in.
Ozone (O3) is the primary pollutant today, which is typical when the sun is out and the wind is low. If you have sensitive lungs, you might feel it a tiny bit, but for most people, it’s a great day to be active. Just keep an eye on those PM2.5 levels if you’re near the 101 or the 60 during rush hour—traffic can trap some of that gunk near the surface when the air is this still.
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Survival Tips for a Mesa January Swing
- Hydrate like it’s July. Even though it’s 79°F and not 115°F, the 27% humidity will wick moisture off you faster than you realize.
- The Layering Strategy. You’ve gotta dress for three different seasons today. Start with a light jacket for that 51°F low, but make sure there’s a t-shirt underneath for the afternoon peak.
- Check your plants. If you’ve got sensitive winter veggies or flowers, this heat spike might make them a bit thirsty. Give them a quick drink before the sun hits the peak.
The weather today in Mesa is essentially a reminder of why we pay the "sun tax." It’s beautiful, slightly unpredictable, and perfect for literally anything outdoors. Enjoy the 79-degree peak while it lasts, because as any Arizonan knows, the weather here has a habit of changing its mind whenever it feels like it.
Actionable Next Steps:
Check your tire pressure this evening. Large temperature swings from 79°F down to 51°F can cause your TPMS light to pop on unexpectedly. Also, grab some sunscreen if you're hitting the golf course—that UV index of 2 is sneakier than it looks in the winter sun.