PHOENIX, Ariz. – After a stretch of dry, warm November days, Arizona skies are shifting toward a wetter, cooler setup by the weekend. A Pacific system spinning toward the Southwest promises scattered rain and isolated thunderstorms late Friday night through Sunday — a change that could bring slick roads and brief travel delays, especially along I-10 and Loop 202 during heavier bursts of rain.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, clouds will thicken Friday ahead of the incoming low. Highs will still climb into the low-80s before dropping sharply once showers develop Saturday. Rain chances jump to 40 percent Saturday and reach 80 percent by Saturday night as the system deepens over southern Arizona. Some pockets of heavier rainfall may total up to a half-inch, mainly south of U.S. 60 and east toward Apache Junction.
Drivers should plan for slower commutes and brief ponding on major roadways through early Sunday. Winds remain light but could gust near 20 mph in storm cells. The moisture tap fades Sunday evening, followed by a drier and cooler start to next week — perfect for early Thanksgiving travel planning or outdoor decorating.
Temperatures will settle near seasonal norms, with highs in the upper 70s and lows in the 50s through mid-week. While no frost or freeze is expected in the Valley, northern Arizona could dip into the 30s by Wednesday, hinting at the state’s slow march toward its winter pattern.
Five-Day Forecast for Phoenix, AZ:
Fri: 84/64 – Partly sunny, warm; clouds increasing late.
Sat: 78/61 – Showers, isolated thunder; travel delays possible.
Sun: 70/55 – Morning rain, breezy; gradual clearing by evening.
Mon: 72/55 – Mostly cloudy early; clearing, mild afternoon.
Tue: 78/58 – Sunny, calmer; ideal for early holiday travel prep.
