A major winter storm is impacting travel across much of the United States on January 25, 2026, though Arizona is expected to see limited effects. While the strongest impacts remain east of the state, parts of northern and eastern Arizona experienced snowfall ranging from one inch near Flagstaff Airport to five inches in the White Mountains.
Regional Impacts in Arizona
Dry air is moving into the region, bringing clearing skies and cooler-than-normal temperatures to the Phoenix area and much of central and southern Arizona, according to Matt Salerno, lead meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Spotty showers brushed central Arizona on January 24 as the storm’s western edge passed through.
Southern Arizona saw widespread rainfall, with approximately half an inch reported in the Tucson area and one to three inches in Cochise County and the Chiricahua Mountains. The storm’s impact was most significant on the Navajo Nation, where officials declared a state of emergency due to hazardous conditions.
National Disruption
Nationally, the storm continues to move eastward, resulting in at least two fatalities and the cancellation of over 10,000 flights as of January 25, according to USA TODAY.
Looking Ahead
Arizona residents can expect calmer weather on January 26, with afternoon highs in the Phoenix area reaching the mid-60s to mid-70s – a few degrees below average for late January. Breezy conditions may persist west of the metro area and along the Lower Colorado River Valley. Overnight, clear skies and light winds will likely cause temperatures in Phoenix to drop to the mid-40s, with some isolated desert locations potentially reaching freezing.
A gradual warming trend is anticipated throughout the week, with temperatures returning to near or slightly above normal by midweek. Dry conditions are expected to continue across Arizona, with cold mornings lingering in Flagstaff and other high-elevation areas before temperatures rebound. Tucson and southern Arizona are forecast to experience sunny and seasonable conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of impact did the storm have on Flagstaff?
The storm produced snowfall totals ranging from about one inch at Flagstaff Airport, according to the National Weather Service.
How much rain fell in Tucson?
About a half-inch of rainfall was reported across much of the Tucson area, according to the National Weather Service.
What is the forecast for Phoenix on January 26?
Afternoon highs in the Phoenix area are expected to reach the mid-60s to mid-70s, a few degrees below average for late January, according to the National Weather Service.
As the storm moves east, will Arizona experience any further weather-related disruptions?
