Today in History: Arizona Dares to Chill with Frigid -40 Degrees

The National Weather Service (NWS) has reported frigid temperature records in Arizona’s White Mountains, a stark contrast to the state’s typical desert climate.

While many associate Arizona with warmth, areas like the High Country and Mogollon Rim experience significant cold due to their elevation. Recently, some regions plummeted to an astonishing 40 degrees below zero.

Flagstaff, known for its chilly winters, has been under observation since 1898. Historical data indicates that winter lows average just over 15 degrees Fahrenheit. However, a record low of -30 degrees was recorded there on January 22, 1937.

Such extreme temperatures pose serious risks. At -30 degrees, frostbite can occur within 30 minutes, and skin can begin to freeze within minutes. Alarmingly, the coldest temperature ever noted in Arizona was -40 degrees Fahrenheit at Hawley Lake on January 7, 1971.

This remarkable statistic emphasizes that areas in Arizona can reach extreme cold, even further south than Albuquerque, New Mexico. Fortunately, the current winter storm affecting northern Arizona is not expected to approach these bone-chilling lows.

For up-to-date weather coverage and more information, local news outlets provide comprehensive reports on the conditions.