Sunny Spells and Snowy Surprises: Your Comprehensive Southwest Weather Guide
By
Amy Freeze
Meteorologist Amy Freeze covers the fluctuating climates across the Southwest, from Los Angeles’ mild breezes to unexpected snowfalls in higher altitudes. Dive into our detailed forecasts for strategic planning whether you're at home or on the road.
Partly cloudy skies with temperature highs and lows, and a mix of rain, snow, and clear conditions sweeping through the Southwest. Get the full forecast with Amy Freeze!
In this detailed blog post, Meteorologist Amy Freeze delivers an in-depth analysis of upcoming weather conditions across the Southwest. From the gentle breezes of Los Angeles to the chilly winds and snow across the northern areas, understand how these changes can impact your week ahead. With tips on how to prepare for fluctuating temperatures and weather alerts, stay ahead of the weather curve!
Across the Southwest region, the radar is painting a lively weather picture this evening. Starting along the northern California coast, showers are making their way inland, providing some refreshing rain to areas like Redding. As these showers push eastward, the central California Valleys, including Fresno, can expect light rain, but snowflakes are dancing in the higher elevations.
Moving toward Cedar City in Utah, a few light showers are stirring up the skies, with potential for brief rain bursts.
Southern Nevada and Arizona, including Phoenix, are basking in clear and dry conditions, offering a reprieve from wetter weather. However, keep an eye on the skies as systems move and evolve.
This afternoon in Los Angeles, temperatures will hover around 60 degrees. Expect mostly cloudy skies with a gentle south-southwest breeze at 6 to 8 miles per hour. Conditions remain dry with no significant weather changes anticipated.
Let’s take a look at today’s high temperatures across the Southwest. In Las Vegas, it’s a warm day with a high reaching 87 degrees, while nearby Phoenix sizzles at 92 degrees. Flagstaff is enjoying a mild day, with highs around 68 degrees, while Cedar City checks in at 70 degrees. Over in Southern California, Los Angeles will experience highs of 62 degrees, with San Diego slightly warmer at 65 degrees. Expect those warmer temperatures to stick around, making it a great day for outdoor activities in most areas!
Tonight in the Southwest, we’re seeing a significant dip in temperatures as a cold front moves through. Flagstaff will also drop to 30, setting the stage for a frosty night. Las Vegas will see cooler conditions with a low of 51 degrees, while farther south in Los Angeles, a mild night is on the way at 48 degrees.
The Bay Area experiences lows of 46 in San Francisco and 45 in Fresno. Over in Bakersfield, expect a low of 49. In San Diego, we’ll stay a bit warmer with a low of 53.
High temperatures for the Southwest region tomorrow are shaping up to be warm. In Phoenix, expect a high of 84 degrees, which is notably above average for this time of year. Las Vegas will see a comfortable 75 degrees also reflecting warmer conditions.
Moving to California, Bakersfield is expected to reach 75 degrees, while Fresno warms up to 70 degrees. In contrast, coastal areas will be a bit cooler, with Los Angeles hitting 63 degrees and San Diego around 62 degrees.
Up north, Redding will reach 61 degrees.
“A new weather system moves into the Southwest, bringing a mix of rain and snow for areas across northern California, Oregon, and Nevada starting late Thursday. Snowfall is anticipated over the higher elevations, potentially impacting travel with reduced visibility and icy conditions. As the system advances, rain will spread farther south through central California, intensifying on Friday. Temperatures remain cooler with a brisk northwest wind. Watch for updates on changing conditions, especially if traveling through mountain passes in northern and central California.”
In Los Angeles, Thursday’s UV index will be moderate at 5, with a burn time of approximately 27 minutes in direct sunlight. By Friday, expect a higher UV index of 8, reducing the burn time significantly to just 17 minutes.