Arizona greets Christmas morning under a muted sky, where distant mountains fade into a brownish haze and the air feels heavier than usual. Calm winds and lingering moisture have allowed pollution to settle across the Valley, triggering a time-sensitive Weather Alert for millions of residents.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect today for Maricopa County, including the Phoenix metro area. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued a PM2.5 High Pollution Advisory as fine particles build near the surface under stagnant conditions. Visibility remains decent, but air quality has quietly deteriorated.
Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, can worsen heart and lung conditions. Older adults, children, and those with asthma face the greatest risk. Health officials recommend limiting outdoor exertion and reducing activities that add pollution to the air.
Drivers heading out for Christmas travel should expect no major weather delays, but the air may appear hazy along I-10, Loop 202, and surface streets during the morning commute. To help improve conditions, residents are urged to avoid fireplace use, outdoor burning, and gas-powered lawn equipment.
Showers taper off this morning, and skies gradually brighten by afternoon. For now, calm winds keep pollutants trapped near the ground. That pattern begins to change heading into Friday as drier air and slightly stronger mixing arrive.
Looking ahead to weekend travel, conditions turn more favorable. Saturday and Sunday bring mostly sunny skies with highs in the upper 60s. Improved ventilation should help air quality recover, offering relief for outdoor plans and post-Christmas activities.
By Monday, sunshine dominates with highs near 70 degrees. Air quality concerns ease as winter weather patterns shift, though residents should remain alert for future advisories during calm December stretches.
For today, plan lighter outdoor activity, especially during the morning hours. Weather Alerts remain in effect, and air quality updates will continue as conditions evolve across central Arizona.
