FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Northern Arizona is waking up to classic mountain fall weather — crisp mornings near freezing, brilliant sunshine by day, and calm skies that stretch through Monday. The chilly dawn air may have drivers scraping frost from windshields along I-17 and I-40 before temperatures rebound into the upper 60s and low 70s this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, a broad area of high pressure will maintain stable, dry conditions through early Tuesday. Morning lows near 32°F to 38°F will give way to sun-filled afternoons, perfect for leaf viewing in Oak Creek Canyon or strolling downtown Flagstaff’s fall markets. Residents should continue protecting tender plants and outdoor pipes as frost remains likely through early next week.
By late Tuesday, a weak Pacific system could bring a few light showers to higher terrain east of town. Rain chances remain around 20%, but any moisture could make mountain roads briefly slick, especially during the evening commute. Winds will increase slightly, gusting up to 20 mph by Wednesday before calm conditions return.
This steady stretch of sunshine makes for ideal hiking and pumpkin-patch weather. Still, chilly mornings demand layered clothing, especially for early runners or school commuters. Expect a mild, picturesque third week of October — true high-country fall weather with just a hint of what’s to come as November nears.
Five-Day Forecast for Flagstaff, AZ:
Sat: 66/37 – Sunny and cool; light east breeze.
Sun: 68/38 – Mild and clear; gusts up to 20 mph.
Mon: 70/39 – Sunny and calm; crisp morning chill.
Tue: 70/42 – Partly cloudy; slight shower chance late.
Wed: 62/35 – Cooler with breezy winds; light rain possible early.
