If you thought Arizona’s weather couldn’t get any crazier, think again. This week has already seen a powerful winter storm, bringing snow to the north, gusty winds to the valleys, and rain showers to the desert. But now, in a complete weather whiplash, the state is set to rapidly warm up just in time for the President’s Day weekend.
Stormy Start to the Week: Snow, Wind, and Cold Temperatures
A strong winter storm moved across Arizona earlier in the week, bringing cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and powerful winds to much of the state.
- Flagstaff and Northern Arizona saw several inches of fresh snowfall, creating stunning winter scenery but also dangerous road conditions on I-40 and other highways.
- Phoenix and the Valley were hit with gusty winds and brief rain showers, bringing cooler-than-normal temperatures to a region that usually enjoys mild winter weather.
- Southern Arizona faced cool winds and scattered rain, with Tucson seeing highs in the mid-50s (°F), far below its typical February warmth.
Residents had to bundle up in heavy coats, and commuters faced delays due to icy and slick roads in the high country. But just as quickly as the storm arrived, it is now moving out, setting up an unbelievable warm-up for the weekend.
A Sudden Shift: Arizona Heats Up for the Holiday Weekend
Just in time for President’s Day weekend, Arizona is flipping the switch on its wintery conditions, with temperatures climbing rapidly across the state.
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Saturday, February 17
- Phoenix: Mostly sunny and warm, with highs reaching 71°F (22°C).
- Flagstaff: Still chilly, but much improved—expect a high near 47°F (8°C) with plenty of sun.
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Sunday, February 18
- Phoenix: The heat cranks up to 75°F (24°C), perfect for outdoor activities.
- Flagstaff: A high of 55°F (13°C), with clouds beginning to build later in the day.
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Monday, February 19 (Presidents’ Day)
- Phoenix: A gorgeous day ahead, with highs nearing 78°F (25°C) under mostly sunny skies.
- Flagstaff: Clouds return, but still a mild 51°F (11°C)—a welcome break from freezing temperatures.
The sudden jump in temperatures is due to a shift in the jet stream, allowing warmer air from the Pacific to push into the Southwest. This pattern will create pleasant, sunny conditions across most of the state.
What This Means for You
With the worst of the storm behind us, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the improving weather. However, some caution is still necessary:
- Melting snow in the high country could lead to slick roads in the mornings, so drivers should be cautious when traveling to or from Flagstaff and other northern areas.
- Temperature swings will be noticeable—mornings will still be cold, so wearing layers is recommended.
- Outdoor plans? This weekend is shaping up to be one of the best in recent weeks, with mild, sunny weather ideal for hiking, biking, or simply relaxing in the sunshine.
Final Thoughts
Arizona is going from cold to near-perfect weather in just a matter of days, making this one of the most dramatic weather swings of the season. Residents who were shivering under heavy coats and blankets earlier this week will soon be enjoying warm sunshine and outdoor activities. If you’re planning to be out and about this holiday weekend, be ready for sunshine, rising temperatures, and beautiful conditions—just don’t forget to dress in layers, as early mornings will still be chilly!