ARIZONA — The desert air feels crisp this morning across the Valley, a calm but cool start under clear skies as Phoenix wakes to the low 50s. It’s a quiet early-December morning, but colder air is creeping south, and by midweek, much of Arizona will feel the first real cold snap of the season.
Temperatures today will climb toward the upper 60s under full sunshine — a mild afternoon for errands or outdoor decorating. But as the sun dips, the warmth will fade fast. By Wednesday morning, lows will fall into the mid-40s, and Thursday could start near 42°F with calm, dry air settling over the desert floor.
Meteorologists say no rain is expected through the weekend, but residents will notice frost-like chill at sunrise, especially in outlying valleys. Drivers should watch for slick spots or light condensation on bridges during the morning commute as temperatures dip close to freezing in higher elevations north and east of Phoenix.
“This is classic December patterning,” forecasters said Tuesday morning. “Dry, sunny days and brisk, chilly nights — winter’s edge arriving quietly.”
The extended outlook shows sunshine through Saturday, with highs steady in the upper 60s to low 70s. Another cool-down could arrive early next week as northern winds strengthen.
Five-Day Phoenix Outlook (Dec. 2–7):
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 69°F. Calm wind.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 67°F, low 44°F.
- Thursday: Sunny, high 68°F, low 42°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high 67°F, low 44°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 68°F, low 45°F.
