Phoenix, AZ – Light, intermittent rain continued across Arizona on Christmas Eve, though much of the precipitation across the Phoenix metro area has been so minimal that rain gauges have struggled to record measurable totals. Meteorologists say the state is being impacted by a broader storm system affecting much of the Southwest, with the most significant impacts expected well north of the Valley.
While the rain has been largely inconsequential for central Arizona, officials are closely monitoring conditions as flood watches, flood warnings, and wind advisories remain in place for other parts of the state.
Light Rain in the Valley, Measurable Totals Up North
Across the Valley of the Sun, showers have been spotty and very light, with many locations seeing little more than mist or sprinkles throughout the day. In fact, forecasters noted that rainfall has been so light in many neighborhoods that standard gauges are not even registering precipitation.
However, some areas farther north — particularly near Cave Creek — have recorded a few hundredths of an inch of rain, offering a glimpse of the moisture being funneled into the state by the larger storm system.
Meteorologists say the showers have been hit-or-miss, primarily affecting the foothills and higher terrain north and east of Phoenix during the morning and early afternoon hours.
Evening Rain Chances Decrease for Phoenix Metro
Forecast models have significantly scaled back evening rain chances for the Phoenix metro area, offering some good news for residents planning holiday activities. While a few isolated sprinkles can’t be ruled out, forecasters say the bulk of the rain activity will stay north of the Valley.
That said, cloud cover remains thick, which is helping keep overnight temperatures unusually warm for late December.
Second Band of Rain Targets Northern and Northwestern Arizona
A second band of rain is expected to move into Arizona later tonight, primarily impacting northwestern parts of the state. Areas such as Lake Havasu City, Kingman, Flagstaff, Prescott, and Payson could see moderate to heavy rain at times as the system moves from west to east overnight into Christmas morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for Mohave County, which remains in effect through Christmas Day, with wind gusts up to 50 mph possible. In addition, a Flood Watch remains active for parts of northwestern Arizona overnight through Thursday morning, raising concerns about localized flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Mild Overnight Temperatures for the Valley
Thanks to persistent cloud cover, overnight lows in Phoenix are expected to remain relatively warm for this time of year. Temperatures on Christmas Eve night are forecast to dip only into the lower 60s, well above average for late December.
While rain chances remain limited in the Valley, residents can expect cloudy skies to linger into Christmas Day, keeping conditions mild but unsettled.
Looking Ahead
Forecasters will continue to monitor the storm system as it exits the region, particularly in areas under active watches and advisories. While the Valley avoids the brunt of the weather, northern and northwestern Arizona remain at higher risk for impactful conditions through Thursday morning.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware, especially if traveling, and to follow guidance from local officials and the National Weather Service.
Have the showers reached your neighborhood, or are conditions staying dry? Share your local weather experience in the comments below and let us know how the storm is impacting your area.
