Phoenix, AZ – Arizona’s early December warmth is set to continue, with above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation expected through December 9–15, according to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s 8–14 Day Outlook, issued December 1.
A dominant ridge of high pressure over the Southwest will keep skies clear, humidity low, and rainfall scarce. Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma can expect daytime highs in the low to mid-70s, while Flagstaff and higher elevations of northern Arizona will stay cooler in the 50s but still above seasonal averages.
NOAA’s outlook calls for below-normal precipitation, signaling a continuation of the state’s dry stretch. The storm track will remain displaced well north into the Pacific Northwest, leaving Arizona under stable, warm, and sunny conditions.
This pattern marks a stark contrast to the central and eastern U.S., where Arctic air continues to dominate through mid-December. For the Desert Southwest, however, it’s a picture of quiet, mild weather — a comfortable setup for outdoor activities but one that may renew concerns about long-term dryness if rain doesn’t return soon.
Forecasters expect the ridge to hold through at least mid-month, with only a small chance of cooler, wetter weather developing closer to Christmas.
