Flagstaff weather by month
Welcome to the Ultimate Flagstaff Weather Guide
Flagstaff, Arizona, is known for its dramatic seasonal shifts, high desert charm, and clear night skies. Whether you’re planning a year‑long trip, a quick weekend getaway, or simply curious about what each month brings, this guide breaks down the weather patterns, average temperatures, and precipitation trends so you can pack, plan, and enjoy every visit.
Seasonal Overview
Flagstaff sits at an elevation of 6,860 ft (2,090 m), giving it a cooler climate than most of Arizona. Here’s a quick snapshot of how the seasons play out:
| Season | Typical Weather | Peak Temperature | Avg. Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Snowy mornings, crisp afternoons | 45°F (7°C) | 1–2 inches |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Cool nights, warmer days, occasional snow | 60°F (16°C) | 1–3 inches |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Warm days, cool nights, rare rain | 70°F (21°C) | <0.5 inches |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Pleasant, gradually cooling | 55°F (13°C) | 1–2 inches |
Flagstaff Weather by Month
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Avg. Snowfall (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 42 | 16 | 1.6 | 12.5 |
| February | 44 | 18 | 1.4 | 9.2 |
| March | 51 | 22 | 1.8 | 4.0 |
| April | 59 | 27 | 1.5 | 0.7 |
| May | 66 | 32 | 1.2 | 0.0 |
| June | 71 | 37 | 0.4 | 0.0 |
| July | 74 | 39 | 0.2 | 0.0 |
| August | 73 | 38 | 0.3 | 0.0 |
| September | 68 | 33 | 0.5 | 0.0 |
| October | 58 | 25 | 1.1 | 0.1 |
| November | 47 | 18 | 1.3 | 0.9 |
| December | 43 | 16 | 1.5 | 11.8 |
All figures are averages from the American Meteorological Society and local NOAA stations.
Monthly Weather Details
January
- Cool and often snowy. Dawn temperatures can dip into the teens, while afternoons hover in the 40s. Expect 1–2 inches of rainfall, with snow cover lasting until mid‑month.
February
- Slightly milder but still crisp. Nights stay below 20 °F on average; daytime highs approach the low 50s. A mix of rain and snow, especially early in the month.
March
- March is the transition period. Snow fades by mid‑month, and temperatures rise into the 60s. Rain begins to arrive more consistently.
April
- The weather gradually eases. Days warm into the 60s, nights hover around 30 °F. Rare showers keep the pine needles lush.
May
- Pleasant, with a steady shift toward drier conditions. Highs in the high 60s, lows in the low 30s. Ideal for hiking before late‑summer heat kicks in.
June
- Warmdays and cool nights become the norm; highs reach the low 70s. Minimal precipitation makes it a popular month for outdoor sports.
July
- Peak summer months. Temperatures often hit the low 70s during the day. The dry season continues, giving clear skies for stargazing.
August
- Still hot, but a bit cooler than July. Highs near 75 °F and dry conditions continue. Nights are welcoming as temperatures drop below 40 °F.
September
- Warm and welcoming, with lows in the mid‑30s. Rainfall remains low, making it a favorite for the fall foliage season.
October
- The fall colors start to pop around mid‑month. Highs reach into the 60s while nights fall well below 30 °F. Occasional light rains keep the scenery vibrant.
November
- Weather turns cooler. Snow risk increases at the end of the month, especially on the higher elevations of Coconino County. Precipitation slightly rises.
December
- True winter arrives: cold nights below 10 °F, daytime highs in the 40s. Frequent snow showers, especially early in the month, create a classic snowy Flagstaff backdrop.
Tips for Visiting Flagstaff in Different Seasons
| Season | What to Pack | Ideal Activities | Health & Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Warm layers, wool hats, gloves, waterproof boots | Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl, snowshoeing, hot springs | Keep windows closed for heat, sunscreen for sunny peaks |
| Spring | Light jacket, rain gear | Trail running, bird watching, early hiking | Sunscreen essential; be cautious of sudden showers |
| Summer | Sunscreen, hat, light shirt | Day hikes, camping, Lake Powell day trips | Stay hydrated, avoid midday hikes |
| Fall | Layered clothing, rain hat | Photography, fall foliage walks, stargazing | Check for sudden temperature drops at night |
FAQ
Q1. Does Flagstaff get snow every year?
A1. Yes. Average snowfall ranges from 10–70 inches annually, with heavy snowfall in January and February.
Q2. What’s the best time of year for stargazing?
A2. Fall and early winter (September–November) offer the clearest skies and cooler temperatures for astronomy.
Q3. When is the dry season in Flagstaff?
A3. Late June through September marks the driest period, with precipitation ≤ 0.5 inches per month.
Q4. Is it safe to walk on the trails in April?
A4. Generally yes, but some higher-elevation trails may still have snow patches; check local trail reports before heading out.
Q5. Do I need a jacket on a July morning?
A5. While July daytime temperatures can reach the 70s, mornings and evenings in the 30s–40s mean a light jacket is advisable.
Resources
- Flagstaff Climate Summary – National Weather Service
- Arizona Snowbowl – Winter Recreation
- Arizonan National Forest – Coconino N.F. Trail Info
- Astronomy Association of Flagstaff – Winter Stargazing Guide
- USA Today Weather: Flagstaff, AZ
Feel free to explore these links for deeper seasonal insights, trail conditions, and event schedules tailored to your visit. Enjoy your time in the beautiful town of Flagstaff, where every season paints a new picture of natural wonder.
