How winter weather, rain could impact Arizonans this week

PHOENIX — The 12News weather team is tracking what has the potential to be the strongest winter storm of the season, and it’s headed to Arizona.

This Pacific storm system will arrive in two parts.  

The first swings into the state on Thursday with scattered light showers across the southern deserts first thing in the morning and gusty wind in the afternoon.  Blowing dust and tough travel conditions for high-profile vehicles will be the main concern across the deserts.  

For the high country, snow will fly above 5,500′-6,000′ with several inches of snow possible in the Flagstaff area by Thursday night.

The second and more intense surge, digs into southern California and Arizona on Friday.

“We’ll look for the rain beginning during the overnight hours in the Valley and a wet morning commute Friday is a good possibility,” said 12News meteorologist Chris Dunn. “Rain totals for the Valley will range from .10″ to .30″ in many areas, with some spots potentially seeing up to 1/2 inch of rain.”

Snow levels will drop to around 4,000′ as the cold storm system passes overhead.

Places like Sedona, Prescot, Payson and Show Low will likely pick up several inches of snow during the day Friday.  

Higher snow accumulations in the higher elevations may make for tricky travel on Friday in the mountains, so use caution!

“This setup is the most encouraging for widespread precipitation we’ve seen so far this winter season,” Dunn said.  

Considering Phoenix has only received .03″ since the end of the monsoon last year, this rain could increase that total tenfold!  

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Arizona has seen its fair share of severe weather. Here is a compilation of videos from various storms across the Grand Canyon state.