Cold air clings to the mountains this Sunday morning as northern Arizona braces for a true December shift. The high country around Flagstaff wakes to crisp air near 28°F, the kind that makes every breath visible. But by midweek, those calm skies could give way to light snow — a reminder that winter travel season is officially here.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, conditions remain clear and breezy through Tuesday with highs near 49°F and lows dropping into the upper teens. Winds may gust over 25 mph at times, adding to the chill. But starting Wednesday, a Pacific system moving inland could trigger scattered snow showers, with chances rising to 40% by Wednesday night.
Accumulations remain uncertain, but forecasters say higher terrain could pick up a light coating — possibly an inch or two — with localized slick spots on I-40 and US-180 through early Thursday. Drivers should plan for reduced traction and wind-driven snow bursts, particularly after sunset when temperatures drop back into the low 20s.
Behind the system, cold air will linger into Thursday and Friday, keeping highs in the 40s and lows near freezing. It’s the kind of early-winter pattern that signals a broader shift toward more active December weather across the Southwest.
Residents traveling back from Thanksgiving should use extra caution midweek as snow bands develop. Check tire pressure, pack emergency kits, and allow extra drive time through the mountain passes.
Five-Day Outlook (Flagstaff, AZ):
- Monday: Sunny, high 44°F, low 18°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 49°F, low 23°F.
- Wednesday: 30–40% chance snow showers, high 43°F, low 22°F.
- Thursday: 30% chance snow, high 44°F, low 20°F.
- Friday: Mostly clear, high 51°F.
