Arizona – A soft desert morning settles over the Valley, with cool air fading quickly as sunlight warms pavement and palm-lined streets. Phoenix starts Monday near 52 degrees, then climbs fast under mostly sunny skies.
According to the National Weather Service, highs reach the mid-70s today and again Tuesday, keeping winter coats optional for daytime travel. Winds stay light, which helps airports, highways, and outdoor plans run smoothly during the busy end-of-year travel stretch.
By tonight, temperatures dip only into the low 50s, still mild for late December. Tuesday follows a similar pattern, with sunshine dominating and highs around 74 degrees. To be fair, this stretch feels more like spring than winter across central Arizona.
Changes arrive midweek. Clouds thicken Wednesday as moisture increases, though daytime highs still reach the low 70s. By Wednesday night, showers become more likely, setting the stage for a damp New Year’s Eve across the metro.
Attention turns squarely to New Year’s Day 2026. Thursday brings a 60 percent chance of showers, mainly light but steady at times. Roads across Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and Scottsdale could turn slick, especially during morning and evening travel windows. Drivers should slow down on I-10, Loop 202, and surface streets where oil buildup can worsen traction during the first rainfall.
Rain chances linger into Thursday night before tapering Friday. While flooding concerns remain low, wet pavement and reduced visibility can still impact holiday plans. Outdoor celebrations may need umbrellas and backup plans.
For now, enjoy the warmth while it lasts. Keep rain gear ready for midweek, and allow extra travel time as 2026 begins. Are your New Year’s plans indoors or outside this year?
Five Day Outlook for Phoenix, Arizona
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 74
Monday Night: Partly cloudy, low near 53
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 74
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 74
Thursday (New Year’s Day): Showers likely, high near 68
