12/12/14 – Patchy low clouds and fog persist over the lower valleys of northeast Arizona this morning. These conditions are not as widespread as the past few days and will dissipate as the day progresses. Strong winds will develop ahead of an approaching cold front today. Expect southwest wind gusts between 35 and 45 MPH this afternoon from Flagstaff and Prescott northwestward.

By this evening a cold front will begin to cross the region from west to east arriving in western Coconino/Yavapai Counties just before midnight. Periods of moderate to heavy precipitation are expected along and just ahead of the front followed by showery conditions behind the front. Snow levels will drop down to between 6000 to 7000 feet by late tonight and will continue to decrease during the day on Saturday.

On Saturday the front will continue to move across northern Arizona reaching the eastern border region by early afternoon. Snow levels by Saturday afternoon will range from 5500 to 7000 feet.

In general total snowfall by Saturday afternoon will range anywhere from a trace to 3 inches for locations between 6000 to 7000 feet with 3 to 6 inches of snow possible above 7000 feet. Higher amounts are likely over the highest mountain peaks and on south facing slopes.