Phoenix Weather: Rain, Wind, Snow & Cooler Temps Arrive This Week

A significant shift in weather patterns is headed for Arizona, bringing cooler temperatures, rain, and substantial snowfall to the higher elevations. After reaching the upper 70s this afternoon, the Phoenix area is bracing for a week of changing conditions, while northern Arizona is under advisories for both high winds and winter weather.

Impact on Phoenix Area

Tonight will see partly to mostly cloudy skies with overnight lows dipping into the mid-50s. Monday, Presidents Day, will begin dry with highs again in the mid-70s, but breezy southerly winds of 10-15 mph, gusting up to 25 mph, are expected to develop in the afternoon.

Showers are likely to arrive between 10 p.m. And 11 p.m. Monday, continuing into early Tuesday. The chance of showers decreases to 30% by Tuesday afternoon. Rainfall in the Phoenix metro area is forecast to be between 0.10″ and 0.30″, while higher terrain northeast of Phoenix could see between 0.50″ and 1.00″ of rain.

Cooler Temperatures Mid-Week

Even after the initial showers pass, additional disturbances mid-week will maintain a slight chance of rain, but the primary effect will be cooler temperatures. Wednesday will be partly cloudy and breezy, with highs in the mid-60s. Thursday and Friday are expected to be partly cloudy with morning lows in the 40s and highs in the mid to upper 60s. Saturday is currently projected to be pleasant, with morning temperatures in the 40s rising to the low 70s in the afternoon.

Did You Know? Snow levels will drop to around 5,500 feet by Tuesday.

High Country Braces for Stormy Conditions

Northern Arizona is facing more substantial impacts. A Wind Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. To 8 p.m. Monday for most of northern Arizona, including parts of Gila County, the White Mountains, Prescott, and eastern Maricopa County, with wind gusts potentially reaching 50 mph.

A Winter Weather Advisory begins at 8 p.m. Monday and continues until 5 p.m. Tuesday for Flagstaff, the Mogollon Rim, and the White Mountains. Travelers returning to the Phoenix area from the mountains are advised to consider departing before the onset of rain and snow Monday evening.

Accumulations of 3″-6″ of snow are possible by Tuesday at elevations above 5,500 feet. Tuesday will also be windy, with gusts of 35-45 mph potentially creating difficult driving conditions. Another round of snow is likely on Wednesday, with an additional 4″-8″ possible, and snow levels dropping to around 5,000 feet. Further rain and snow showers are possible Thursday and Friday, with snow levels potentially falling to 4,500 feet. Snowfall amounts could change.

Expert Insight: The combination of wind and snow at higher elevations presents a significant hazard for travelers, potentially impacting road conditions and visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the expected rainfall amounts in Phoenix?

Rainfall amounts in the Phoenix metro area are forecast to be around 0.10″ to 0.30″.

When will the wind advisory begin in northern Arizona?

The Wind Advisory for northern Arizona begins Monday at 11 a.m. And lasts until 8 p.m. Monday.

What are the potential snow accumulations in the High Country?

3″-6″ of snow is possible by Tuesday, with an additional 4″-8″ likely on Wednesday.

As the week progresses, will you be adjusting your plans based on the evolving weather forecast?