Tucson, Arizona — Unseasonably warm December weather will continue across southern Arizona on Friday, with Tucson expected to reach a high near 81 degrees as temperatures remain 15 to 20 degrees above normal.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, the warm pattern is expected to persist through the weekend and into early next week, with several locations approaching or challenging daily record highs. Friday’s forecast high of 81 degrees in Tucson is just one degree shy of the city’s daily record of 82 set in 2024.
Elsewhere in the region, Nogales is forecast to reach near 80 degrees Friday, while Sierra Vista is expected to climb to about 79 degrees. Douglas and Willcox are forecast to see highs in the mid to upper 70s, well above seasonal averages for mid-December.
Forecasters said the warmth will continue through at least Monday, with Tucson forecast to reach about 83 degrees Monday afternoon. Some locations could see near-record or record-breaking highs during that time period, particularly across lower elevations of southern Arizona.
Despite the warm temperatures, conditions are expected to remain dry, with little to no rainfall forecast through early next week. Overnight lows will also remain mild, staying well above freezing across most populated areas.
The National Weather Service noted that a shift in the weather pattern is expected by the middle of next week. A developing system could bring modest cooling along with a small chance of showers, though rainfall amounts are expected to be light at this time.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and remain mindful of fire safety, as warm and dry conditions can increase wildfire risk even in winter months.
