Arizona Heat Wave: 20° Above Normal This Week

Arizona Braces for Record-Breaking Warmth as High-Pressure System Dominates

A persistent high-pressure system is settling over Arizona, driving temperatures substantially above normal and effectively shutting out any chance of winter storms for at least the next ten days. Residents from phoenix to Flagstaff are experiencing conditions more akin to spring than early December,with potential daily records on the horizon.

A strong ridge of high pressure is currently positioned over the western United States, acting as a “warm lid” over the region and blocking incoming storm systems. This setup is pushing temperatures up to 20 degrees above average for this time of year across Arizona.

Phoenix Nears Record Highs

The Phoenix metropolitan area is poised for a week of steadily climbing temperatures. According to a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Phoenix, “We’re going to be looking at temperatures warming well above normal for this week.” By mid- to late-week, highs are forecast to reach the upper 70s, perhaps hitting 80 degrees.

December 11th and 12th are being closely watched. The forecast predicts a high of 79 degrees on Thursday, just two degrees shy of the daily record. Friday’s forecast of 78 degrees brings the city even closer to potentially breaking the existing record of 79 degrees. Longer-range outlooks indicate these dry and warm conditions will persist for at least the next two weeks, with no precipitation expected.

Did you know? – Arizona’s high-pressure systems often originate over the Pacific Ocean and move eastward, bringing warm, dry air to the state. These systems are common in the fall and winter.

Flagstaff Experiences Unseasonably Mild Temperatures

Northern Arizona is also experiencing an unusual warm spell. A meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Flagstaff stated, “Temperatures this week are going to be considerably above average,” estimating a rise of 10 to 15 degrees above normal on Tuesday, increasing to 10 to 20 degrees above normal from Wednesday through Friday.

Typically, early December highs in Flagstaff range from the upper 30s to 40s. Though, projected temperatures are expected to reach the upper 50s to low 60s. This warming trend is also attributed to the dominant high-pressure ridge, which will prevent any snowstorms from developing in the high country. While mornings will remain chilly, residents can anticipate clear, sunny afternoons that feel more like early spring.

“It’ll be pretty tranquil,” one forecaster noted, adding that the only hazard will be the colder morning temperatures. Unless the weather pattern shifts dramatically,northern Arizona may not experience a white Christmas this year.

Pro tip: – Staying hydrated is crucial even in cooler temperatures, especially with increased sun exposure. Wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

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Hayleigh Evans writes about extreme weather and related topics for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. She can be reached with story tips at [email protected].

Expanded News Report with Answers to Questions:

why is this happening? A strong, persistent high-pressure ridge over the western United States is responsible for the unseasonably warm temperatures across Arizona. This ridge is acting as a “warm lid,” blocking incoming storm systems and pushing temperatures up to 20 degrees above average.

Who is affected? Residents across the entire state of Arizona, from Phoenix in the south to Flagstaff in the north, are experiencing the warm conditions. Meteorologists from the National Weather Service in both Phoenix and Flagstaff have commented on the situation.

What is happening? Arizona is experiencing a prolonged period of unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures potentially reaching record highs in Phoenix (upper 70s to near 80 degrees) and significantly above normal in Flagstaff (upper 50s to low 60s). The warm spell is expected to last at least the next ten days, with no precipitation anticipated.

How did it end (or is expected to end)? As of