Chill Alert: Brace for a Christmas Cold Front

A cold front is expected to bring cooler temperatures and high desert showers just in time for Christmas.

PHOENIX — As above-normal temperatures continue across Arizona, residents can anticipate slightly warmer afternoons following a decrease in morning clouds. On Monday, lower desert highs are projected to reach the upper 70s, while higher elevations like Flagstaff will see a high of 60 degrees. In Phoenix, the temperature could hit 78 degrees, just shy of the 1950 record for this date, which stands at 79 degrees.

Midweek disturbances will approach the state, with the first system arriving on Christmas morning. While this front will mainly cause a drop in temperatures and breezy conditions, light showers and potential high elevation snow are possible in northern regions. Rainfall amounts will be minimal. A second wave of energy expected on Thursday may bring scattered showers and snow accumulation at elevations above 7,000 feet, potentially reaching three inches. Meanwhile, lower desert areas will remain dry, with a Christmas Day high of 70 degrees and highs in the high country settling in the mid-40s. Wednesday in Northern Arizona is forecasted to feature more dry periods than wet.

Temperatures will trend closer to seasonal averages by Thursday and Friday, with lower desert highs around the upper 60s. By next weekend, the mercury is set to rebound, bringing valley highs back into the lower to middle 70s.

Seven-Day Forecast

MONDAY: 78/52 – Clouds decrease, warm

TUESDAY: 77/51 – Partly sunny, warm

CHRISTMAS DAY: 70/50 – Mostly sunny, cooler

THURSDAY: 68/46 – Mostly cloudy, cooler, rain & snow in northern regions

FRIDAY: 69/45 – Clouds decrease

SATURDAY: 72/46 – Mostly sunny

SUNDAY: 75/47 – Sunny, pleasant

Arizona has encountered various severe weather events statewide. For an overview of significant thunderstorms, floods, and fires, a compilation video is available on our 12News YouTube channel.

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