Maricopa Braces for Chilly Mornings and Possible Sprinkles This Week

Maricopa is set to experience a change in weather patterns as cooler temperatures and the potential for light rain are forecasted for Tuesday night. After months of dry conditions, residents can expect some relief from the persistent heat.

Mark O’Malley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, indicated that a series of weather disturbances coming from the Pacific Northwest will influence Arizona’s climate, leading to breezy days ahead. By mid-week, temperatures are projected to hover around 60 degrees in the afternoons, with morning lows potentially dipping to freezing.

“Be prepared for the freezing temperatures; that’s always a big deal that catches people off guard,” O’Malley warned. The chance of rain tomorrow night stands at 30%, although expectations should be tempered. The passing storm system is unlikely to carry sufficient moisture for significant rainfall.

Central Arizona has only recorded trace amounts of rain this fall and early winter. While prolonged dry spells are not uncommon, O’Malley noted that the region is entering a rare phase of extended dryness. “We typically don’t go months without any rain, so anything we receive will be appreciated,” he stated.

Last year ranking as the warmest on record for Phoenix and nearby areas compounds concerns over the lack of rainfall. December, in particular, saw an average temperature nearly nine degrees above normal, with no precipitation recorded, according to NWS data.