Arizona is bracing for an unsettled weather weekend, marked by rain and snow in the higher elevations. The Phoenix area is expected to experience light showers, while Tucson and southeastern Arizona face a wetter forecast with potential for significant rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, several weather systems will pass through the desert southwest until January 25, producing light rain in south-central and eastern Arizona and snow in the mountainous regions. While this weather activity will cause some travel difficulties, it is not linked to the major winter storm affecting the eastern United States.
In Phoenix, the forecast indicates on-and-off showers through January 24, with the likelihood of rain ranging between 40% and 70% and accumulation expected to be between 0.1 and 0.25 inches. Drivers may encounter slick roads during heavier rain, and isolated thunderstorms, which could include lightning and small hail, are anticipated on the afternoon and evening of January 24. Notably, Phoenix is currently below its average January rainfall, having recorded just 0.18 inches as opposed to the typical 0.65 inches by this time.
In the Tucson area, a prolonged period of rain is forecasted through January 24, with rainfall totals potentially reaching between 0.5 and 1.25 inches. This could lead to ponding on roads and flows in normally dry washes. Snowfall in higher elevations may also occur, with forecasts indicating 6 to 12 inches above 7,000 feet in areas such as the Catalinas and Mount Graham.
Northern Arizona stands to face the most challenging travel conditions, primarily due to snow levels that are predicted to drop from between 6,500 and 7,500 feet to about 5,000 to 6,000 feet. The National Weather Service in Flagstaff reports that Flagstaff itself may accumulate 1 to 2 inches of snow, with more substantial amounts forecasted in surrounding mountainous areas. A winter weather advisory is in effect for the White Mountains, where snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected above 7,000 feet and up to 12 inches above 8,000 feet.
However, as Arizona prepares for these weather changes, the eastern U.S. is grappling with a far more severe winter storm that is causing hazardous travel conditions and power outages due to a mix of heavy snow and ice. This situation underscores the importance for Arizonans traveling east to stay updated on airline alerts and prepare for variable weather conditions.
Overall, while Arizona’s weather may pose challenges, it serves as a reminder of the diverse weather phenomena impacting different regions of the country. As the systems move through, it provides an opportunity for much-needed precipitation and a shift from the dry conditions experienced so far this month.