Phoenix Weather in August: Hot Days and Warm Nights

The Phoenix weather in August is hot and there is only a very little bit rain. Even though it's one of our rainiest months, since we are in the desert, we will only average about an inch this month. 

It's the second hottest month each year with most days reaching up to and over 100 degrees.

Read on to learn more about what to expect this month including a few tips on what to pack for your stay.

The Phoenix weather in August offers hot days and hot nights. The average temperatures during the summer are around 105 degrees. It cools off a bit in the nighttime lows in the lower 80s. 

Once the sun comes up again, it gets hot again quickly.

If you want to go for a run or walk, I recommend heading out in the early morning before or just as the sun is coming up. Even though we have a dry heat, the intensity of the sun will overwhelm your body easily if you aren't used to it.

No matter when you go out this time of year, make sure you are staying hydrated. Bring along water and drink as much water as you can before and after you go outside. Heat exhaustion, heat rash, and sunburns are common this time of year so make sure you are prepared.

Here are a few more details about the Phoenix weather in August

Average High in August: 105° F/41° C

Average Low in August: 83° F/28° C

Average Monthly Rainfall: ~1 inch

Record High: 117° F/ 47° C

Record Low: 58° F/15° C

What to Wear for the Phoenix Weather in August

Women

Shirts: You'll want to bring along loose fitting, short sleeved shirts and tank tops. Anything that will keep you cool. You don't want to wear tight fitting shirts as they won't allow your body to breath as much and will make you feel quite a bit warmer. If you plan to be out in the sun, you may want to consider light colored, loose fitting, long sleeved shirts to keep from getting burned in the sun. Aram and I change our shirts often this time of year when we are out and about, so bring along a couple of extra shirts so you can change into a dry one when you get too sweaty.

Dresses/Skirts/Shorts: Any loose-fitting dress or skirt will also work well this time of year. Shorts are also a great option. I typically wear shorts during the day and dress or skirts in the evenings. The loose-fitting ones are all better as they will allow at least a little bit of a breeze in to help cool down your body.

Swimming Suit: Make sure to pack your swimming suit. Most pools are open this time of year and it's a great way to cool off during the day or even in the evenings once the sun goes down.

Shoes: If I'm just casually walking around outside, I'll wear sandals to make sure my feet stay cool. If I'm on a hike or walking around quite a bit, I'll wear athletic shoes. I'm prone to heat rash, so I often will stop and cool off my feet to ensure I stay safe during the hot Phoenix weather in August.

Hats & Sunglasses: Both of these are a must also. You can wear a baseball cap or a wide brimmed hat to keep the sun off your face. I prefer the light and airy jogging caps. Don't forget your sunglasses too! Both of these will help shield you from the intense sun, but always wear sunscreen as well. 

Men

Shirts: Both short sleeved shirts and tank tops are acceptable around town with our sunny Phoenix weather in August. Unless it's more of a formal occasion, both of these will help you stay cool. If you do plan to be directly in the sun, you may want to consider wearing a loose fitting, light colored, long sleeved shirts. This will keep your skin safe from our intense sun.

Shorts: Shorts are also acceptable almost everywhere. Loose fitting shorts are the best as they will allow your body to stay a little cooler. You can also wear loose fitting pants too. Just make sure they aren't too thick and are still comfortable if they get a little sweaty.

Swimming Suit: Bring along at least one to two swimming suits. Jumping in the pool is a great way to start the day or to cool off when its super-hot outside. 

Shoes: Sandals and light weight athletic shoes are best this time of year. We wear our sandals and flip flops as much as possible to keep our feet cool.

Hats & Sunglasses: Do not forget to bring along a hat if you plan to spend any time in the sun. This will protect your face from the sun. Sunglasses will also help protect part of your face as well as your eyes in the sunny Phoenix weather in August. Also, make sure to bring along some good sunscreen.

Five Fun Things to Do in Phoenix in August

1. Heard Museum: Head over to the Heard Museum to learn more about Native American Indians that lived in this area for thousands of years. See their art, jewelry, and read all about their cultures. It's one of the best museums in Phoenix. You can also pick up advanced tickets here.

2. Day Trip to the Grand Canyon: Spend some time at the Grand Canyon in August. The temperatures here this time of year are in the 80s, so it's cool and comfortable. It's only about a three-and-a-half-hour drive, so it's an easy day trip. You can also spend the night in a hotel for the evening to really help cool off from the summer heat. You can also head up on a guided tour, so you can watch the beauty all around you as someone else drives you to the Grand Canyon. There are even plane or helicopter tours! Find one of my favorite day trips here. 

3. Musical Instrument Museum: The first time Aram and I visited the Musical Instrument Museum; we were blown away since they have over 15,000 instruments! This amazing space showcases several different aspects of music. You will find memorabilia from top artists from around the world. You will also learn about music from different cultures as well as see what instruments they typically play.

4. Brewery Crawl: You can also cool off with a fun brewery crawl around Phoenix. Many offer small tastings, so you can easily sample some of the best in The Valley. You will also find both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your brews anyway you like. There is nothing better than having a few brews in the hot Phoenix weather in August to cool yourself down.

5. Arizona Diamondbacks Games: Our final recommendation is to head to an Arizona Diamondbacks game. They have a retractable roof, so on those super hot days you will be shielded from the summer sun and can enjoy a game or two of American's favorite pastime.

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