Arizona’s Winter Forecast Is in (And It’s Not What You’d Expect)

The weather in Arizona can certainly hit extremes, especially in the summer, with the ridiculous heat. However, it can hit some impressively cold weather as well. While we never seem to experience winter lows like New England, the Midwest, and other parts of the country do, it can still be frigid throughout the state, particularly in higher elevations. If you're curious about what type of winter we are in store for this year, The Old Farmer's Almanac recently released its 2025-2026 winter predictions. Here's what we may expect this winter in Arizona—consider this your Arizona winter weather forecast for 2025-2026!

The Old Farmer's Almanac, first published in 1792, has been the go-to guide for winter weather predictions for over 200 years! While it makes mere predictions (this is based more on folk science than on actual meteorology—it's just for fun, after all), it is often at least a bit accurate. THE all-original, classic hand guide just released its newest, most up-to-date winter predictions for this coming season. What do you think will be in store for us this winter in Arizona? Let's see.

Now, winter in Southwestern Arizona, including Arizona and Tucson, is almost always pleasant. The temperatures are quite mild, sometimes cold in the mornings and evenings, and it's a great time to get outside for a long hike. It's my favorite time of year here. It's also expected to be drier than normal in the west and above normal in the east during the winter, but this part of the state can also experience the occasional snow flurry, although it's uncommon. The coldest times are expected to be mid-November, early December, and late January.

High desert areas and Northern Arizona typically experience more traditional winter weather, complete with cold air, snowstorms, and icy road conditions. This is due to the areas' higher elevations. The Old Farmer's Almanac's 2025-2026 winter predictions for Arizona suggest that we can expect the snowiest time of the season in late January, early February, and late March, with temperatures milder than in previous years.

If you've never been to Flagstaff in the winter, you haven't lived, and you must plan a visit this year! While temperatures are predicted to be higher than average throughout the state than in previous years, that doesn't mean we won't have any precipitation. Flagstaff, part of the Intermountain Region, tends to get snow if it rains in the Phoenix Metro area, which will be good news for those who head up to Arizona Snowbowl to ski or snowboard! Snowbowl receives an average of 260 inches of snow annually, but it may look a bit different this year with fluctuating amounts of snow. Hopefully, we're on track for a great ski season this winter. If not, at least man-made snow is also added to Snowbowl's ski runs.

Need some ideas for fun things to do in Arizona this winter? Consider adventures like the ultimate Arizona winter road trip, or perhaps wandering around some of the most beautiful places in Arizona while it's chilly, might sound appealing. You should also check out our Ultimate Guide to Winter Activities and Attractions in Arizona for more ideas!

So, here you have it: the "official" 2025-2026 Arizona winter outlook, thanks to our friends at Farmers' Almanac. I hope they're right; I don't know about you, but I think we need the water! What are your plans for this winter? Be sure to check out our ultimate winter packing list guide to best prepare for the season.

Feeling inspired to create your own winter adventures in Arizona? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.