Arizona weather forecast: Storms bringing rain, snow to the state

Evening Weather Forecast - 1/6/26

FOX 10's Erica Horvatin has the details on our next winter storm.

PHOENIX - Tuesday was a mild and fair day in Arizona.

Temperatures climbed to 70 degrees in the Valley. Tonight will be partly to mostly cloudy, with a low of 51 degrees.

Wednesday:

Wednesday will be cool, with a high of 61 degrees. The day will start dry, but rain showers will move in during the afternoon, continuing through the night.

Two storms are impacting Arizona on Wednesday and Thursday, with the first storm bringing scattered rain to southern and central AZ Wednesday afternoon through the night. Rain in the mountain terrain will turn to light snow as temperatures drop Wednesday night.

Only light snow accumulations are expected through Thursday morning.

The second storm will bring more widespread rain across Arizona, and snow in the mountains through the night. Snow will really add up in the mountains, above 6,000 ft. on Thursday, leading to winter driving conditions throughout the day.

Flagstaff, Kachina Village, Munds Park and Show Low are likely to receive 2 to 6 inches of snow. The White Mountains could pick up the highest amounts of snow, more than a foot. Snowbowl ski area could receive up to a foot.

Morning Weather Forecast - 1/6/26

We should stay dry on Tuesday in the Valley, but incoming storms will soon bring big changes.

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.