Arizona wakes up to damp pavement and low clouds as winter weather slowly tightens its grip. Light showers are already dotting parts of the Valley, and the unsettled pattern will linger into the Christmas travel window.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, rain chances remain elevated through Christmas Day, with several rounds of showers possible. Daytime highs will stay mild, reaching the mid-70s Christmas Day, but cloud cover and periodic rain will keep conditions feeling cooler. Roads may stay slick, especially during heavier bursts.
By Thursday night into Friday, shower chances dip slightly, though clouds persist. Highs ease into the low 70s, and nighttime temperatures slide into the upper 50s. That cooler trend matters for drivers heading out early or returning late, when damp roads can reduce visibility.
Looking ahead to post-Christmas travel on Saturday, conditions improve but do not fully dry out. Skies turn partly sunny, with highs near the upper 60s. Moisture lingering from earlier rain could still leave patches of wet pavement, especially in shaded areas during the morning hours.
Meteorologists are also monitoring powerful winter systems impacting California and the Sierra Nevada. Heavy rain and mountain snow there could disrupt regional travel and indirectly affect Arizona road and flight schedules. Travelers connecting through West Coast hubs should plan for delays.
While freezing temperatures are not expected in Phoenix, this time of year often brings flash-freezing risks in colder regions, reminding travelers to stay alert when moving between states.
Travel tips:
Plan extra time if driving Friday or Saturday. Keep headlights on during rain. Watch for sudden slowdowns on freeways.
📅 Five-Day Outlook (Phoenix, AZ)
- Christmas Day: 50% chance of showers, high near 74
- Thursday Night: Slight chance of showers, low near 58
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, high near 72
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 68
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 71
