Arizona – Clouds drift steadily into the Valley this morning, softening the sunrise and signaling a change in Phoenix’s usually dry December pattern. Pavement remains dry for now, but the smell of moisture hangs faintly in the air as rain chances increase later today.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, skies turn mostly cloudy as the day progresses, with a slight chance of showers developing late this afternoon. Temperatures still climb near 79, keeping conditions mild, but increasing cloud cover limits sunshine. Winds remain light, offering little resistance to incoming moisture.
Rain chances rise more noticeably tonight and continue into Wednesday. Showers become more widespread, especially before sunrise, with occasional wet roads likely across Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and Glendale. While rainfall totals stay light, slick pavement could slow early travel on I-10, Loop 101, and Loop 202.
Christmas Day remains unsettled. Periods of showers remain possible through the morning, with temperatures peaking near 75. Drivers heading out for holiday gatherings should expect damp roads and reduced visibility at times, especially during heavier bursts of rain.
Conditions gradually improve Thursday night, though clouds linger. By Friday, skies turn mostly cloudy with only a slight chance of lingering showers early. Highs settle near 71, offering a cooler but manageable post-Christmas travel day. Roads dry as the day progresses, improving driving conditions across the metro area.
Looking ahead, Saturday brings a break from rain with partly sunny skies and highs near the upper 60s. While Phoenix avoids winter hazards like snow or ice, changing conditions still require attention during busy travel periods.
Plan extra time during wet stretches and watch for slick roads, especially at intersections. Traveling later this week? Share what conditions look like where you’re driving.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Phoenix, Arizona
- Today: Increasing clouds, slight chance of showers late, high near 79
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, chance of showers, high near 73
- Christmas Day: Showers likely early, mostly cloudy, high near 75
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, chance of showers, high near 71
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, slight chance of showers early, high near 71
