Arizona Faces Sudden Winter Chill Before Midweek Warm-Up

Light rain and snow showers are expected to persist across Arizona, followed by a significant warmup in temperatures. This weather shift comes as an upper-level low pressure continues to linger over the state, contributing to a brief winter feel.

In the past 24 hours, rainfall totals have varied across the Valley. Locations in the East Valley, including Gilbert, reported rain accumulation ranging from a trace up to 0.12 inches.

Details on snowfall amounts from Friday to Saturday afternoon reveal substantial accumulations in higher elevations:

• NWS Flagstaff: 4.2 inches
• W. Williams: 3.0 inches
• Wheatfields: 2.0 inches
• SW. Walker: 1.8 inches
• N. McNary: 1.0 inch

In elevations above 7,500 feet, an additional 1-3 inches of snow is anticipated from Saturday night into early Sunday morning. Winter Weather Alerts remain in effect for the Kaibab Plateau and Chuska Mountains until early Sunday.

The higher deserts of southeast Arizona, stretching from Globe to Safford and Willcox, are under a Freeze Warning from midnight until 9:00 AM Sunday, with subfreezing temperatures possible in the early morning hours.

As the low pressure system shifts away, a gradual warmup will begin on Sunday. The forecast shows valley highs reaching the lower 80s under mostly sunny skies, while high country temperatures will be in the 50s and 60s, following early morning rain and snow. Flagstaff will only see a high of 53, accompanied by light showers.

Temperatures are set to continue their upward trend throughout the upcoming week. By Wednesday, the Valley may approach the century mark, signaling a rapid transition from this brief winter weather pattern.

Foreseen Seven-Day Forecast:

• SUNDAY: High of 83°F, Low of 62°F – Sunny & pleasant.
• MONDAY: High of 93°F, Low of 64°F – Sunny & hotter.
• TUESDAY: High of 97°F, Low of 65°F – Mostly sunny & above normal.
• WEDNESDAY: High of 99°F, Low of 67°F – Sunny & above normal.
• THURSDAY: High of 100°F, Low of 68°F – Sunny & above normal.
• FRIDAY: High of 99°F, Low of 67°F – Sunny & above normal.
• SATURDAY: High of 98°F, Low of 68°F – Mostly sunny & above normal.

Arizona’s weather has been marked by various severe events recently. For a broader perspective of notable weather incidents occurring across the state, videos showcasing thunderstorms, floods, and wildfires are available on the 12News YouTube channel.

Residents are encouraged to share weather-related images or videos, using the hashtag #BeOn12 on social media or through submissions to the 12 News app.