Prescott weather by month
Discover everything you need to know about Prescott’s climate, from early‑spring showers to desert‑heat winters. This guide breaks down the weather by month, helps you plan travel and outdoor activities, and provides handy tips for each season.
⬛ January – Cold Start to Early Warmth
In January, Prescott enjoys the mildest weather of the year. Average highs hover around 54 °F (12 °C) while nighttime temperatures dip to 31 °F (−0.5 °C). Snowfall is rare, but a cold front can drop temperatures below freezing.
Key Activities:
- Hiking early in the day before temperatures rise.
- Exploring the historic downtown while staying cozy inside cool cafés.
⬛ February – Steady Temperatures, Windy Days
February maintains January’s trend, with highs in the mid‑50s and lows around 35 °F (1.7 °C). Windy afternoons can make it feel cooler, especially near the ridges and roadways.
Tip: Pack a light windbreaker for weekday errands or museum visits.
⬛ March – Spring Awakening
March signals spring’s arrival. Average highs climb to 63 °F (17 °C), and lows rise to 43 °F (6 °C). The area sees increased rainfall, averaging 1.5 inches each month.
Best Time for:
- Outdoor festivals
- First‑time visits to Prescott’s botanical gardens
⬛ April – Perfect Picnic Weather
April’s sunny skies bring averages around 74 °F (23 °C) for highs and 56 °F (13 °C) for lows. Rainfall continues but drops to about 1.2 inches.
Outdoor Tip: Summer camps and trail runs thrive with comfortable midday temperatures.
⬛ May – Long Days, Warm Nights
The months of May announce the full arrival of summer. Average highs reach 84 °F (29 °C), while nighttime temperatures settle at 61 °F (16 °C). Sunshine may start to dip slightly, but rain stays modest at 0.9 inches.
Must‑Do: Enjoy river activities or sunset hikes before the evening cools down.
⬛ June – Early Summer Warmth
June sees the first of middle‑to‑late 90s temperatures, with highs averaging 92 °F (33 °C). Lows remain pleasant at 64 °F (18 °C). Precipitation remains negligible, with canyons occasionally dimming the sun.
Planning Hint: Book outdoor rentals early; the high demand means limited availability.
⬛ July – Peak Sunny Days
July is typically the hottest month. Approximate highs go into the mid‑90s (95 °F / 35 °C), while lows stay in the 70s (68 °F / 20 °C). Rainfall is virtually nonexistent – think zero inches.
Action: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan hikes for early morning or late afternoon.
⬛ August – Core of the Summer
August mirrors July’s conditions but can push temperatures into the high 90s (97 °F / 36 °C) with occasional heat waves. Night temperatures stay around 70 °F (21 °C).
Travel Tip: Day trips north to higher elevations (e.g., Flagstaff) offer cooler climates.
⬛ September – Sunset Chill
September opens the transition. Daily highs decline to 85 °F (29 °C), while lows drop to 61 °F (16 °C). Rain chances remain minimal.
Opportunity: Participate in early fall festivals and enjoy the “soft” post‑summer vibe.
⬛ October – Autumn’s Calm
October welcomes crisp air. Highs average 69 °F (21 °C), and lows settle at 44 °F (6 °C). Rainfall climbs modestly at 1.2 inches.
Outdoor Suggestion: Grab a coffee and stroll across Oak Street before the night chill sets in.
⬛ November – Mild, but Cooler Nights
November shapes the final retreat into winter. Highs are around 57 °F (14 °C); lows drop to 34 °F (1 °C). Rain falls approximately 1.5 inches.
Worth Trying: Scenic drives around the rim; the vision of autumn trees adds charm.
⬛ December – Winter’s Gentle Grip
December is Prescott’s milder winter month. Average high: 50 °F (10 °C); average low: 28 °F (–2 °C). Snow is unlikely but a rare icy morning can become a photo‑op. Rain averages 1.1 inches.
Missing Merry Lights? Visit the Plaza Lamps Festival to light up your holiday mood.
Prescott Weather by Month – Quick Reference Table
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 54 | 31 | 1.3 |
| February | 58 | 36 | 1.2 |
| March | 63 | 43 | 1.5 |
| April | 74 | 56 | 1.2 |
| May | 84 | 61 | 0.9 |
| June | 92 | 64 | 0.4 |
| July | 95 | 68 | 0.1 |
| August | 97 | 70 | 0.2 |
| September | 85 | 61 | 0.5 |
| October | 69 | 44 | 1.2 |
| November | 57 | 34 | 1.5 |
| December | 50 | 28 | 1.1 |
Data sourced from the National Weather Service and the Arizona Climate Center.
FAQ – Prescott Weather In-Depth
Q1: When is the best time to visit Prescott to avoid crowds and still enjoy sunny weather?
A1: Late May through early July offers a sweet spot of warm days, fewer tourists, and minimal rainfall.
Q2: How often does Prescott get snow during the winter?
A2: Snow is rare in downtown Prescott; occasional light dunes at higher elevations can occur in December or January.
Q3: Is it common to experience afternoon monsoons in the summer?
A3: Yes—late summer afternoons often bring brief, heavy thunderstorms; check local alerts before evening hikes.
Q4: Do I need a jacket for evenings outside?
A4: Even in summer, night temperatures fall into the 60s, so a light jacket is advisable, especially during winter months.
Q5: What’s the best way to gauge current precipitation in real time?
A5: Use the NOAA Weather Radar app or the local media station’s online forecast for up‑to‑minute updates.
Resources
National Weather Service – Prescott, AZ
Get live radar, hourly alerts, and precipitation maps.
Arizona Climate Center – Historical Data & Climate Summary
https://arizonaclimatecenter.org/
Explore expanded historical trends for Prescott and surrounding counties.
Prescott’s Official Tourism Site – Seasonal Events Calendar
https://visitprescott.org/events/
Discover festivals, farmers markets, and cultural happenings tied to the weather pattern.
The Weather Channel – Prescott Weather Forecast
- National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center
Final Thought
Whether you’re a resident or a frequent traveler, understanding Prescott’s monthly weather patterns can help you savor the city’s unique scenic beauty, historic charm, and high‑altitude adventures. Plan
