Phoenix residents are experiencing a shift in weather patterns. After a period of sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s, a weak storm system is forecast to bring cooler temperatures and a slight chance of showers to the area by the weekend.
Cooler Temperatures on the Horizon
Currently, high pressure is maintaining “pretty quiet and dry” conditions, with temperatures remaining above average, according to Gabriel Lojero, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Phoenix. However, this pattern is expected to change as a storm system approaches the Southwest.
Lojero stated, “As we head into Friday and the upcoming weekend, we’re going to have a weather system move across the region, bringing temperatures down to near-normal levels around 68, 69 degrees.” Overnight lows are also predicted to decrease, falling into the 50s and potentially the upper 40s, though freezing temperatures are not anticipated.
Limited Rainfall Expected
The possibility of showers will increase starting January 21, with the highest chance of precipitation occurring between late January 23 and January 24. However, rain chances remain low, estimated at 20% to 30%, and significant accumulation is not expected in the metro Phoenix area.
Lojero confirmed that rainfall amounts are expected to be light, “mainly below a quarter of an inch here in Phoenix between late Friday into Saturday,” and that “we’re not looking at anything very impactful for any flooding.”
The system is forecast to move out of the area quickly, with drier conditions returning by January 25. Forecasters anticipate a return to a calmer and warmer weather pattern in Phoenix as the new week begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the weather start to cool down?
The cooling trend is expected to begin as we head into Friday and the upcoming weekend, with temperatures dropping to near-normal levels around 68 or 69 degrees.
How much rain is expected?
Rainfall amounts are expected to be light, mainly below a quarter of an inch in Phoenix between late Friday and Saturday.
Will temperatures drop below freezing?
No, freezing temperatures are not expected. Overnight lows will cool to the 50s and potentially the upper 40s.
With a shift in the forecast, how might you adjust your weekend plans to best enjoy the changing Arizona weather?
