Tucson, Arizona – A series of weather systems is bringing widespread rain to Southeast Arizona today while mountain communities prepare for accumulating snow and colder conditions that extend through Thursday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for the White Mountains, Galiuro, Pinaleno, Catalina, and Rincon Mountains from late this morning through Thursday evening. The first round of precipitation develops today and continues into this evening, with snow levels generally between 7,000 and 7,500 feet. Snowfall during this initial phase is expected to be limited, with totals around 2 to 6 inches in the higher terrain.
A second, colder system arrives Thursday and brings more efficient snowfall production. Snow levels are expected to drop to around 5,000 feet by Thursday evening, expanding impacts to additional mountain passes. Total storm snowfall is forecast to reach 8 to 12 inches above 8,000 feet, with locally higher amounts at peak elevations. Areas between 6,000 and 8,000 feet could see 2 to 8 inches of snow.
Valley locations including Tucson, Benson, Nogales, Douglas, and Willcox will see widespread rain through Thursday night. The heaviest rainfall is expected this afternoon and evening, with storm totals ranging from a quarter to three-quarters of an inch. Runoff may cause ponding in washes, dips, and other low-lying roadways.
Cold temperatures follow the system, with freezing conditions expected Friday and Saturday mornings east of Tucson. Additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve, and residents are urged to monitor updates and use caution during periods of heavy rain and mountain travel.
