1/4/16 – Expect a prolonged period of winter weather this week as several storm systems move through Arizona. The first in the series of systems will move through Arizona today through Tuesday bringing mountain snow and valley rain showers. Expect periods of light to moderate precipitation with snow accumulating above 6000 feet. Snowfall accumulations through Tuesday are expected to range from 2 to 6 inches above 6000 feet. Travel may become hazardous at times due to winter driving conditions.

Mountain snow and valley rain will continue into Saturday as progressively colder low pressure systems impact the state. The periods favored for precipitation accumulations are Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, again Wednesday night through Thursday and again during the day Friday. Accumulating snow is possible down to the 4500-5000 foot level by Thursday.

Mountain locations generally above 6000 feet can expect substantial amounts of new snow by the end of this week. The most important message, expect widespread winter weather conditions across northern Arizona this week.