Stormy Shift Ahead for Phoenix: Rain, Wind, and High Country Snow on the Way
Phoenix residents are enjoying a mild Sunday, but a significant change in weather is expected to arrive Monday night into Tuesday, bringing with it rain, gusty winds, and even snow in the higher elevations of Arizona.
Today’s high temperature reached 73°F, followed by a pleasant evening. Overnight lows are forecast to dip into the mid-50s. Sunday itself promises partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 70s, offering a brief respite before the approaching storm system.
Presidents’ Day, Monday, will begin dry with mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-70s, with breezy conditions developing in the afternoon. Valley residents can anticipate wind gusts of 20-25 mph. The chance of showers increases late Monday night and continues into Tuesday morning, accompanied by continued gusty winds. By Tuesday afternoon, the probability of precipitation decreases to around 20 percent.
Total rainfall in the Phoenix metropolitan area is projected to range from 0.1 to 0.2 inches, with higher amounts likely in the surrounding higher terrain. Tuesday’s high will be around 70°F. A slight chance of lingering showers remains for Wednesday, with highs in the upper 60s.
The cooler trend will persist through the end of the week, with highs remaining in the mid to upper 60s and mostly sunny skies prevailing.
High Country Braces for Stormy Conditions
The high country is preparing for a more substantial impact from the storm, with rain, snow, and strong winds expected. Travelers returning from mountain areas to the Valley on Monday to conclude the holiday weekend are advised to depart early, as conditions are predicted to deteriorate Monday night.
A Wind Advisory is in effect for the northern mountains, including Prescott and Flagstaff, from Monday afternoon through Monday night. The advisory warns of southwest winds at 20-30 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 45 mph. Snow will also begin to develop Monday night into Tuesday, with snow levels dropping to around 6000 feet by Tuesday. Accumulations of 2-5 inches are possible by late Tuesday, accompanied by wind gusts of 30-40 mph.
Another weather system could bring a second round of snow on Wednesday, with snow levels potentially dropping to around 5000 feet. Gusty winds of 30-40 mph are also possible, along with potential snowfall accumulations of 4-8 inches. However, officials caution that these amounts are subject to change, and residents should stay informed.
– The approaching storm represents a significant shift in weather patterns for Arizona, impacting both the lower deserts and the high country. Residents are encouraged to prepare for the changing conditions and stay updated on the latest forecasts.
