Arizona – Frost coats rooftops and parked cars across southern Arizona this morning as cold desert air settles into the Tucson basin. Breath hangs visibly in the air, and exposed plants show early signs of stress as temperatures dip toward the upper 20s.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, a Freeze Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. MST for the Tucson metro, South Central Pinal County, Southeast Pinal County, the Tohono O’odham Nation, and the Upper Santa Cruz River Valley. Subfreezing temperatures between 25 and 32 degrees pose a risk to sensitive vegetation, pets, and unprotected outdoor plumbing.
In Tucson, widespread frost developed before sunrise, especially in low-lying neighborhoods and desert washes. Shaded roads, bridges, and ramps along I-10 and surface streets may turn slick early. Drivers should slow down through mid-morning, particularly near river crossings and areas with irrigation runoff. Allow extra time for travel and windshield defrosting.
Winds increase later today, helping temperatures rebound quickly. Sunshine dominates, pushing highs near 58 degrees by afternoon. Despite the warmer feel, the early freeze marks one of the coldest mornings so far this January.
Sunday turns breezy and noticeably warmer. Gusts may top 30 mph at times, while highs climb into the low 60s. Clear skies Sunday night allow temperatures to fall again, though lows remain closer to the upper 30s, easing freeze concerns.
Next week brings a steady warm-up. Highs rise into the upper 60s Monday, then approach 70 degrees Tuesday, with quiet, dry weather continuing. Nights stay cool but manageable, signaling a shift away from freeze risk.
By late January, Tucson gains nearly 40 extra minutes of daylight, stretching evenings longer even as winter mornings bite. Did frost show up where you live this morning?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Tucson, Arizona
Today: Frost early, then sunny. High near 58.
Sunday: Sunny and breezy. High near 62.
Monday: Sunny. High near 67.
Tuesday: Sunny and warmer. High near 70.
Wednesday: Sunny. High near 74.
