Arizona starts the morning cold and calm, but the quiet won’t last. Clear skies hang over Flagstaff at 32 degrees, and frost clings to shaded sidewalks. By late morning, winds ramp up fast.
A Wind Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Southwest winds increase to 20 to 30 mph. Gusts could reach 40 to 50 mph, especially along the Mogollon Rim and across the Little Colorado River Valley.
High-profile vehicles on I-40 and I-17 will feel the push. Secure loose outdoor items before midday. Trash bins and patio furniture could tumble in stronger gusts.
Despite the wind, sunshine helps temperatures climb to 64 degrees this afternoon. It will feel milder than recent days, offering a brief March spring tease.
Skies turn mostly clear tonight with lows near 30 degrees. Winds ease but remain noticeable.
Tuesday brings calmer conditions and a high near 61 degrees under sunny skies. Tuesday night drops to 27 degrees. Wednesday holds steady with sunshine and highs again near 61.
Thursday turns cooler with a high near 51. A slight chance of snow showers develops Thursday night before 11 p.m., with lows near 22 degrees. Friday carries a 20 percent chance of snow showers and a high near 49. Any flakes look light for now, but brief slick spots are possible if bursts develop.
This is also the time of year when melting snow refreezes after sunset. Watch for patchy ice in shaded areas.
Most of the nation tracks rain and snow this week, but northern Arizona swings between wind, warmth, and a light snow chance.
Clocks spring ahead at 2 a.m. Sunday in Arizona’s neighboring states, though Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
