Winter Wonderland Takes Over Christmas Vibes

A cold front is set to bring a noticeable drop in temperatures just in time for Christmas.

PHOENIX — Despite backing away from record highs, temperatures across Arizona remain significantly elevated. On Tuesday, the lower deserts can expect highs in the upper 70s, while the high country sees temperatures in the upper 50s to middle 60s, with Flagstaff reaching 58 degrees beneath increasing clouds.

Cloud cover will thicken as the day progresses. The Kaibab Plateau may experience light showers and a wintry mix Tuesday night.

Two major disturbances will influence the weather in the coming days. The first will affect Northern Arizona, bringing light rain and snow mainly along and north of I-40 into Christmas morning. A second wave of weather on Thursday could introduce a wintry mix to high desert areas, with elevations above 7,000 feet potentially accumulating up to three inches of snow. The lower desert regions, however, will remain dry but noticeably cooler.

By Christmas Day, temperatures in the Valley will struggle to reach 70 degrees. A trend towards more seasonal temperatures is expected on Thursday and Friday, with highs closer to the upper 60s. Looking ahead to next week, a strengthening ridge of high pressure will likely lead to warmer conditions.

**Seven-Day Forecast:**

TUESDAY: 77/52 – Clouds increase, warm.

CHRISTMAS DAY: 70/51 – Mostly sunny, cooler.

THURSDAY: 67/46 – Partly sunny, rain & snow in northern regions.

FRIDAY: 69/45 – Partly sunny.

SATURDAY: 72/46 – Partly sunny.

SUNDAY: 74/46 – Mostly sunny.

MONDAY: 75/47 – Sunny, pleasant.

Arizona has a history of severe weather events. For insights into recent thunderstorms, floods, and fires across the state, a compilation is available for viewing on the 12News YouTube channel.

If you spot interesting weather phenomena, such as storms or beautiful sunsets, safely capture the moment and share it with us via the 12 News app, or connect on social media using the hashtag #BeOn12.