Phoenix, AZ – Drivers across the Valley could wake up to the coldest air of February early Saturday, with some rural desert communities slipping close to freezing before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, clear skies and light winds will allow temperatures to fall rapidly overnight, with widespread lows in the mid-30s to low 40s across south-central Arizona. Outlying desert areas, especially west and south of Phoenix, face the highest risk of dipping to 32 degrees or lower around daybreak Saturday.
Across Maricopa County, Phoenix is expected to bottom out near 40 degrees, while communities such as Surprise, Buckeye and Casa Grande may fall into the mid-30s. Rural stretches near Gila Bend and parts of Pinal County could briefly touch freezing. Farther north and east, colder pockets near Wickenburg and Globe will feel an even sharper chill.
State transportation crews are not anticipating major roadway impacts, but early morning drivers should remain alert for isolated frost on bridges and overpasses. Residents should protect sensitive plants, bring pets indoors and cover exposed pipes in colder desert locations.
Temperatures rebound quickly after sunrise Saturday, with afternoon highs returning to the 60s. Another chilly morning is possible Sunday, and additional advisories could be issued if freezing conditions expand.
