Weather
Northern Arizona Weather Alert: Cold Rain Returns Oct 30-31
Flagstaff, AZ – Cold rain, gusty winds and the possibility of thunderstorms could bring a significant change to Halloween weekend across the Flagstaff area, with precipitation chances climbing to 80%
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-25T10:44:28.264Z
Flagstaff, AZ – Cold rain, gusty winds and the possibility of thunderstorms could bring a significant change to Halloween weekend across the Flagstaff area, with precipitation chances climbing to 80% Friday, Oct. 30. Temperatures are expected to fall from the lower 60s earlier in the week to the upper 40s by Saturday, creating a noticeably colder and wetter environment for outdoor activities. Wind gusts approaching 30 mph could add another challenge for residents traveling through northern Arizona's higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, showers and possibly a thunderstorm are expected Friday, with an afternoon high near 52 degrees and an 80% chance of precipitation. Southwest winds of 6 to 15 mph could gust as high as 28 mph. Rain remains likely Friday night, with a 70% precipitation chance and temperatures dropping to approximately 39 degrees. The forecast does not specify rainfall totals or indicate accumulating snow for Flagstaff.
Rain and Stronger Winds Arrive Friday The developing weather pattern marks a substantial departure from the relatively mild conditions expected during the first half of the week. Monday brings mostly sunny skies and temperatures near 60 degrees, followed by sunshine and a high around 62 degrees Tuesday. Wednesday remains mostly sunny, although southwest winds could gust to 24 mph as the atmosphere begins transitioning toward a more unsettled period.
By Thursday, increasing cloud cover and stronger southwest winds will signal additional changes. Afternoon temperatures should reach approximately 58 degrees, with sustained winds increasing to 10 to 15 mph and gusts potentially reaching 28 mph. A 40% chance of showers develops Thursday night as temperatures fall toward 40 degrees, setting the stage for Friday's considerably wetter conditions.
Halloween Weekend Brings Colder Temperatures Saturday, Oct. 31, could present another round of weather challenges as showers remain likely and thunderstorms are possible. The National Weather Service projects a 60% chance of precipitation, with mostly cloudy skies and an afternoon high near 48 degrees. Southwest winds of 13 to 16 mph could gust as high as 30 mph, making exposed outdoor locations feel colder.
For motorists traveling Interstate 17, Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 180, wet pavement and reduced visibility during heavier showers could affect driving conditions. Gusty winds may also be noticeable along exposed highway stretches. No specific road closures or travel restrictions were identified in the supplied forecast, but drivers should check conditions before traveling through the higher terrain.
The temperature change will be particularly noticeable for residents planning Halloween activities. Tuesday's expected high of 62 degrees will give way to Saturday's high near 48 degrees, a 14 degree decrease over four days. Although nighttime temperatures remain cold, the forecast does not establish a snow or ice event for the city.
What Residents Should Watch Next Flagstaff's elevation makes changing temperatures, wind and precipitation especially relevant for travelers and outdoor recreation. Residents planning hiking trips, community events or Halloween celebrations should prepare for wet conditions and have warmer clothing available. The combination of rain and wind could make prolonged outdoor activities uncomfortable, particularly Saturday.
Forecast confidence is stronger regarding the overall increase in precipitation chances than the exact timing of individual showers or thunderstorms. Updated National Weather Service forecasts will help clarify when the heaviest precipitation may occur and whether weekend wind projections change.
Will the possibility of cold rain and 30 mph wind gusts affect your Halloween weekend plans in northern Arizona?
Five Day Weather Outlook Sunday 10/25: Mostly sunny skies are expected after patchy morning fog, with a high near 55 degrees and a 20% chance of afternoon showers; Sunday night turns mostly clear, with patchy fog and a low around 28 degrees.
Monday 10/26: Mostly sunny conditions return with temperatures reaching approximately 60 degrees and east winds of 5 to 8 mph during the morning; Monday night remains mostly clear, with a low near 36 degrees.
Tuesday 10/27: Sunny skies bring the week's warmest forecast temperature near 62 degrees, accompanied by southwest winds of 5 to 9 mph and gusts up to 15 mph; nighttime temperatures fall to approximately 37 degrees.
Wednesday 10/28: Mostly sunny skies continue, with a high near 60 degrees and southwest winds of 6 to 11 mph gusting up to 24 mph; Wednesday night becomes mostly cloudy, with temperatures falling to around 38 degrees.
Thursday 10/29: Mostly cloudy skies develop as temperatures reach approximately 58 degrees, with southwest wind gusts up to 28 mph; Thursday night brings a 40% chance of showers and a low near 40 degrees.
Extended Weather Outlook Friday, Oct. 30: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm are expected, with an 80% chance of precipitation and a high near 52 degrees. Southwest winds of 6 to 15 mph could gust to 28 mph. Friday night brings a 70% chance of showers and a low near 39 degrees.
Saturday, Oct. 31 — Halloween: Showers remain likely, with thunderstorms possible and a 60% precipitation chance. Temperatures reach approximately 48 degrees, while southwest winds of 13 to 16 mph could produce gusts as high as 30 mph.