Today's barometric pressure in Phoenix, a 48-hour pressure chart, and a migraine risk score based on pressure drops, humidity, and temperature changes.
Phoenix's extreme heat and low humidity might seem stable, but monsoon season from June through September brings rapid pressure shifts and dust storms. The 40-degree daily temperature swing between day and night is another common trigger.
Worst season for migraines: July through September. The North American Monsoon transforms Phoenix's weather from bone-dry stability to daily convective storms. Pressure drops during monsoon thunderstorms are brief but sharp, and the humidity spike from single digits to 50-60% creates a dramatic environmental shift for migraine sufferers.
Common triggers in Phoenix: monsoon pressure drops, extreme daily temperature swings of 30-40 degrees, dust storms reducing air quality. Phoenix's desert basin traps heat and creates strong surface low-pressure during summer afternoons. The 40-degree daily temperature swing between predawn lows and afternoon highs is one of the largest of any major US city, creating a daily cycle of atmospheric change that sensitive individuals may notice.
Typical pressure: Phoenix averages 974 hPa at rest, measured at the city's own elevation rather than corrected to sea level, and storm systems can push readings down to 966 hPa. Swings of 8-12 hPa over 24 hours are common during active weather and fall within the range most associated with pressure-triggered migraines.
Can Phoenix weather trigger migraines?
Yes. Phoenix experiences 8-12 hPa barometric pressure swings, and research shows pressure drops are one of the most common migraine triggers. The city's specific patterns include monsoon pressure drops, extreme daily temperature swings of 30-40 degrees, dust storms reducing air quality.
What time of year are migraines worst in Phoenix?
In Phoenix the most barometrically volatile stretch of the year falls in July through September. That is when weather is most likely to play a part, if weather is a trigger for you at all.
How do I track migraine triggers in Phoenix?
Use MigrAid to log your attacks with one tap. The app automatically records barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity at the time of each migraine, then finds patterns between your attacks and Phoenix's weather conditions over time.
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Is it really the weather?
Weather gets blamed for a lot of migraines, but it's hard to know if it's really behind yours. The MigrAid app saves the barometric pressure with every migraine you log, so after a few weeks you can see whether Phoenix's swings actually line up with your attacks, and get a heads-up on days that match your pattern.