Arizona — Frost coats rooftops and parked cars across the high country as Flagstaff wakes under a clear, brittle sky. The cold is sharp early, and the air feels still, but change is already lining up beyond the weekend.
Temperatures hover near freezing this morning, then climb toward 60 degrees this afternoon under full sun. Roads across I-40 and Highway 89 remain dry and clear, offering good travel conditions through daylight hours. Drivers should still watch for slick spots early, especially in shaded areas where frost lingers longer.
Saturday stays sunny and seasonably cool, with highs in the upper 50s and overnight lows near freezing again. Sunday follows a similar pattern, bright during the day and cold after sunset. Layers remain essential for anyone heading out early or staying out late.
While the weekend stays quiet, meteorologists are tracking early signs of a winter shift. Models hint at a possible rain-and-snow mix developing by midweek. The timing remains uncertain, but temperatures dip closer to the low 50s by Wednesday, increasing the chance of a changeover, especially at night.
For travelers planning Christmas trips, Flagstaff sits at a crossroads of calm and caution. Dry roads dominate through at least Monday, but late-week systems could bring snow showers. Even light snowfall can quickly create slick pavement and reduced visibility along mountain highways.
Residents should begin light winter prep now. Check tires, allow extra travel time later next week, and stay weather-aware if heading toward higher elevations. Cold nights also raise the risk of black ice after any moisture melts and refreezes.
For now, enjoy the sunshine. Winter hasn’t fully arrived yet, but the pattern is shifting. Are you traveling through Flagstaff for Christmas, or staying put to watch the season change?
Five-Day Outlook for Flagstaff, Arizona
• Saturday: Sunny, high near 58
• Sunday: Sunny, high near 59
• Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 61
• Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 58
• Wednesday: Chance rain/snow mix, high near 50
