A crisp desert chill settles over Arizona this morning as a cold December breeze moves across Phoenix, creating that sharp, dry bite that catches early travelers stepping outside before sunrise. Light wind flows over driveways, roofs, and desert fields, hinting at a quick warmup later — but for now, the air feels colder than many residents expect this early in December.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures in Phoenix began the day in the upper 40s, with clear skies and calm wind. Drivers heading toward I-10 and Loop 101 should expect sun glare by late morning but enjoy dry, stable roadway conditions through the afternoon. Residents heading out early may still want a jacket as cooler pockets linger in shaded neighborhoods.
By Friday, a steady warmup returns. Sunshine will lift highs into the upper 60s with calm conditions and excellent visibility. That means strong travel conditions for those moving around the Valley for early December errands, post-holiday returns, or Christmas-season preparations. To be fair, mornings will still feel brisk, and the wide day-to-night temperature swing could catch people off guard.
Meteorologists continue watching longer-range models that hint at a broader pattern shift across the western U.S. next week, though Arizona remains firmly under dry, stable high pressure for now. Still, plan extra time for early drives as crisp mornings continue and desert-side pavement stays cool well into the mid-morning hours.
Plan for cool sunrises, warm afternoons, and clear skies heading into the weekend.
Traveling across the Valley this Friday or Saturday? Tell us how cold it felt in your neighborhood this morning.
Five-Day Outlook for Phoenix, AZ
Today (Wednesday): Sunny, high near 68. Calm → light west wind by afternoon.
Tonight: Clear, low near 43. Light wind.
Thursday: Sunny, high near 67. Light north → northwest breeze.
Thursday Night: Mostly clear, low near 42.
Friday: Sunny, high near 66. Calm wind.
Friday Night: Clear, low near 43.
Saturday: Sunny, high near 67.
Saturday Night: Clear, low near 45.
Sunday: Sunny, high near 70.
