A Cool Down and Cloud Cover: Phoenix Braces for Incoming Southwest Storm
The Daily Overview
Today is Thursday, January 22, 2026, and residents across the Valley of the Sun are waking up to a significant shift in the local weather pattern. After a relatively warm Wednesday that saw afternoon highs reaching 77°F, today marks the beginning of a cooling trend. While Phoenix is known for its winter sunshine, today will be defined by a thick blanket of clouds and a noticeable drop in mercury as a large-scale weather system begins to take shape across the southwestern United States.
Morning Forecast: Clouds Roll In
The morning hours will start with temperatures in the mid-50s to low-60s. Unlike the clear starts we have seen earlier this week, satellite imagery shows moisture increasing rapidly in the mid and upper levels of the atmosphere. By 9:00 AM, the sky is expected to be mostly cloudy. Winds remain light for the time being, and the barometer is showing a steady rise, indicating the approach of a more complex atmospheric setup. Commuters should expect overcast conditions, though visibility remains high for the morning rush.
Afternoon and Evening Outlook: A Chilly Shift
As we move into the afternoon, the high temperature is projected to reach approximately 68°F, nearly ten degrees cooler than yesterday. The sky will remain stubbornly gray, providing a 'chilly' feel to those accustomed to the Arizona sun. By the evening hours, the temperature will dip toward a low of 59°F. Forecast models suggest a very small chance of a light shower or drizzle across the Phoenix metropolitan area after sunset. While significant rainfall is not expected today, the increased humidity and cloud cover will make for a damp-feeling evening, perfect for indoor activities.
Regional Alerts and the Weekend Storm
The National Weather Service and private forecasters, including meteorologists from AccuWeather, are keeping a close eye on a major winter storm currently taking shape in the Southwest. Tens of millions of Americans are currently under various forms of winter weather alerts as this system begins its trek toward the East. While Phoenix will primarily see increased cloudiness and slight precipitation today, this system is the precursor to more dramatic weather for our neighbors in New Mexico and the higher elevations of Arizona. Forecasters warn that this developing system could be historic in scale as it moves across the nation's midsection over the coming weekend. For today, Phoenix residents are advised to keep a light jacket handy and stay tuned for further updates as this storm system matures.