The weather in Arizona’s high country changes quickly, with early mornings starting off crisp and quiet, but temperatures rising fast, turning a cold start into a warm spring afternoon.
Morning Temperatures and Rapid Warming
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, the temperature early in the morning dropped to around 33°F, with calm winds and clear skies.
This setup allows the temperatures to rise quickly, reaching 82°F by mid-afternoon, causing a sharp 40-degree temperature swing. This means that road and surface conditions can change fast.
If you are driving through Flagstaff, especially along I-40 and Route 89, you may notice that the roads are cold in the morning, followed by warmer, drier roads by midday. So, it’s important to wear layers as temperatures can feel chilly at sunrise and much warmer by lunchtime.
Weather Forecast for Sunday and Monday
Sunday will bring slightly cooler weather but still pleasant, with highs near 76°F and partly sunny skies. Winds may pick up at times, with gusts of up to 20 mph, making it feel brisk.
On Monday, sunny skies will return with highs around 75°F. However, winds will increase in the afternoon, with gusts reaching around 24 mph. Dry air and breezy conditions may cause fire weather concerns across northern Arizona.
Tuesday and Wednesday Outlook
Looking ahead to Tuesday, March 24, temperatures will climb to near 79°F with sunny skies. Nights will still be cool, dipping into the upper 30s, maintaining a large difference between day and night temperatures.
Meteorologists are tracking a broader warming trend across the Southwest due to high pressure systems. While deserts will experience extreme heat, Flagstaff will stay milder, though still dry.
Tips for Flagstaff’s Spring Weather
Plan for large temperature changes throughout the day. It is important to:
- Keep a jacket early in the morning when it’s cold.
- Hydrate in the afternoon when the temperatures rise.
- Secure loose items as the winds can be gusty at times.
