Arizona — A thin veil of morning haze stretches across the Valley as streetlights glow on faintly damp pavement and the air sits warmer than usual for mid-November. Light cloud bands drift east, hinting at the change pushing into the state this weekend. The quiet dawn won’t last long. A notable pattern swing is taking shape, and it could affect early travel and outdoor plans as rain returns to the desert.
Residents should expect smooth travel early today, but any weekend driving along I-10 or Loop 202 may require extra flexibility. A pocket of Pacific moisture is gathering, and Saturday evening carries the strongest rain potential, including isolated thunder. Keep phones charged, secure patio items, and consider shifting outdoor events earlier in the day.
According to the National Weather Service Phoenix office, today stays mostly sunny with warm highs near the mid-80s. Calm winds turn easterly this afternoon, adding a slightly drier feel. Models hint at cloud thickening Saturday morning, followed by showers developing after 11 a.m. Temperatures drop into the low 70s as rain begins, and east winds shift southwest by late afternoon.
A stronger wave arrives Saturday night with an 80 percent chance of rain. Embedded thunderstorms could produce locally quick downpours, especially across the East Valley and foothill communities. Urban streets may see brief ponding where heavier cells pass.
Sunday holds lingering showers early before brighter skies return. The cooler air behind the system keeps highs in the low 70s, a noticeable dip from the recent warmth. Monday stays mostly sunny before another weak disturbance approaches Tuesday, offering a small rain chance.
For now, Phoenix leans into its first meaningful November moisture surge — a reminder that even in the desert, seasonal swings arrive with speed.
Five-Day Outlook (Phoenix, AZ)
Sat: 79/63 – Showers after 11 a.m.; breezy late.
Sun: 72/55 – Early showers, then clearing.
Mon: 71/54 – Mostly sunny.
Tue: 72/54 – Chance showers.
Wed: 73/61 – Partly cloudy.
