Arizona – A sharp cold settles over the high country this morning, with Flagstaff waking to clear skies and temperatures in the upper 20s. Frost glints on rooftops, and the still air amplifies the bite before sunrise as winter asserts itself across northern Arizona.
Conditions remain calm early, but change is coming. Daytime highs climb into the low 60s today under mostly sunny skies, creating a wide temperature swing. That warm-up helps dry roads, yet shaded areas and bridges may stay slick during the early commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, a developing Pacific system begins influencing the region late Tuesday. Clouds thicken, winds increase, and temperatures trend cooler by Tuesday night. Showers become likely after dark, with rain dominating lower elevations at first.
By Wednesday, impacts increase. Gusty southwest winds may exceed 30 mph at times, reducing visibility along I-40 and U.S. 180. Showers continue through the day, and colder air works in behind the system. Travelers should plan for rapidly changing conditions, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
Christmas Eve on Wednesday brings the strongest signal of winter weather. Periods of rain are expected in town, while snow becomes more likely on surrounding higher terrain. As temperatures fall toward the upper 30s Wednesday night, a rain-to-snow changeover cannot be ruled out. Even light snow could create slushy roads and icy patches after dark.
Christmas Day stays unsettled. Showers remain likely, with highs in the upper 40s. Additional cooling Thursday night drops lows near freezing again, opening the door for lingering slick spots and refreezing on untreated roads.
This warm-to-cold pattern is a classic early-winter setup for Flagstaff. Small shifts in temperature will matter. Slow down during wet periods, secure holiday travel plans early, and watch for alerts as conditions evolve.
Seeing snowflakes yet where you are, or just cold rain?
Five-Day Outlook for Flagstaff, Arizona
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 63
Tuesday: Partly sunny, breezy, high near 58
Wednesday: Showers, windy, high near 50
Christmas Day: Showers likely, high near 47
Thursday: Rain/snow chance late, colder, high near 48
