Arizona weather forecast: Dry, partly cloudy conditions on Tuesday in Phoenix

PHOENIX - As we end 2025 and welcome 2026, rain will return to the state.

Today:

The clouds rolled into Arizona today, keeping temperatures cooler. 

The Valley only warmed into the low 70s. Winds were gusty during the morning and midday, but lighter winds are expected through the evening and the rest of the night.

Overnight lows will fall into the mid 50s in the Valley. 

Ringing in 2026 with rain

The Rest of the Week:

Heading into Wednesday, New Year’s Eve, it will be a cloudy day, with high temperatures in the low 70s. 

The chance for showers in Phoenix jump to 20% later afternoon on New Year's Eve. By New Year's Eve night, the rain chance increases to 60% and that lasts through New Year's Day. 

The shower potential will be best over west and northwestern parts of Arizona. Showers are likely to pass in rounds, mostly scattered and light to steady. While it will not be a washout, the showers will impact outdoor celebrations across the state. 

Looking Ahead:

Temperatures will be too warm for any snow in the high country on New Year’s Eve or Day. 

Snow levels will lower a bit Thursday night through Friday morning, enough to see some isolated snow. The only spots that could see snow will be Snowbowl and Sunrise ski areas, above 10,000 ft. There may be some wintry mix in spots like Flagstaff, around 7,000 ft. elevation, by Friday morning.

The weekend will be drier for all of Arizona, with partly to mostly cloudy skies and temperatures in the low 70s in the Valley.

You can always check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.

Scroll down this page for satellite and radar, day planner, records, current temperatures, 10-day forecast, forecast highs, and recent rainfall totals, plus live video feeds.

Leave prepared before heading north

After recent snowfall in the high country, the Arizona Department of Transportation is reminding drivers who are heading north to never park along highways to play in the snow. 

Use the highway shoulders for emergencies only. Parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in the following ways:

• Other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle.
• Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
• Your vehicle may interfere with first responders who need to use the shoulder.
• Plows can throw snow and ice far off highways.
• It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances

"Also, it’s not uncommon for lots of desert dwellers to take the opportunity to head north to play in the snow. So, remember to pack your patience and expect to spend extended time in your vehicle getting to and from snow play areas."

ADOT's suggestions for items to take along:

• Warm clothing and blankets
• A fully charged mobile phone and charger
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Drinking water
• Healthy snacks
• First-aid kit and necessary medications
• Ice scraper
• Small bag of sand or kitty litter for wheel traction
• Small folding shovel for snow removal
• Travel tool kit and battery cables
• Safety flares
• Plastic bags or containers for sanitation
• Road map(s)

ADOT says you and your vehicle must be prepared for driving in wintry conditions, including snow, ice and freezing temperatures.

• Get plenty of rest
• Plan your route in advance and notify someone about your route, destination and arrival time
• Take frequent breaks from driving
• Make sure your fuel tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times
• Use snow tires, chains or studded tires as recommended or required. Studded tires are permitted on Arizona highways from Oct. 1 to May 1.
• Ensure your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work
• Change your motor oil to a winter grade
• For electric or hybrid vehicles, be sure the battery has sufficient voltage and the connection cables are tight

Get more safety tips at https://azdot.gov/KnowSnow

For Flagstaff area snow-play locations, see FlagstaffArizona.org's Winter Recreation Map or call 844-256-SNOW.

Rain/flood safety tips

The American Red Cross' tips for heavy rain situations and flood safety:

• Turn around don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
• If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
• If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
• Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.
• If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.
• If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

Road Conditions

• Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)
• az511.com