So, you’re looking at the weather forecast for Snowflake Arizona and thinking it’s going to be a winter wonderland 24/7 because of the name, right? Honestly, that's what everyone assumes. But the town wasn't even named for the weather—it’s actually a mashup of the last names of its founders, Erastus Snow and William Flake. Kinda funny how that works out.
Right now, if you're stepping outside in Snowflake, it’s a crisp 27°F. It actually feels a bit colder, more like 23°F, thanks to a light 3 mph breeze coming in from the southwest. The sky is perfectly clear tonight, which is pretty typical for this high-desert plateau. Humidity is sitting high at 87%, but since it's so cold, you won't feel that "muggy" vibe at all.
👉 See also: That One Shoe Stealing Fox in Grand Teton: Why Your Boots Are Not Safe
What to Expect for Friday, January 16, 2026
If you’ve got plans for today, Friday, January 16, you’re looking at a pretty stellar winter day. We’re talking a high of 53°F and a low of 23°F. It’s going to be sunny all day long with a UV index of 3, so don't let the cold air fool you; that high-altitude sun can still give you a burn if you’re out hiking.
Wind is going to pick up a little, coming from the north at about 9 mph. There is a 0% chance of precipitation, so you can leave the umbrella at home. It’s basically going to be a dry, bright, and chilly day.
The Reality of High-Elevation Desert Weather
Snowflake sits at about 5,600 feet in elevation. That’s the "secret sauce" behind why the weather here acts so weird compared to Phoenix or Tucson.
Basically, the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains act like a giant wall to the south. This creates a semi-arid climate where the air is thin and dry. You’ve probably noticed that the temperature swings here are massive. It’s not rare to see a 30-degree difference between your morning coffee and your afternoon walk.
📖 Related: How Far Is Charleston South Carolina From Hilton Head? The Lowcountry Drive Explained
Winter Trends and Surprises
January in Snowflake is usually the coldest month. While today’s high of 53°F is actually a bit warmer than the historical average of 49°F, those 23°F nights are right on the money.
- Snowfall: Even though the name is Snowflake, we only average about 2 inches of snow in January.
- Sunshine: This is the best part—even in the dead of winter, it’s sunny about 62% of the time.
- Wind: April is the real monster for wind, but January stays fairly calm, averaging around 12 mph.
Honestly, the biggest mistake travelers make is underpacking. You’ll see people show up in a light hoodie because "it’s Arizona," and then they’re shivering by 5:00 PM when the sun drops behind the horizon. You need layers. Seriously. A heavy jacket for the morning and evening, but something breathable for the afternoon sun is the way to go.
Actionable Tips for Navigating Snowflake Weather
If you're living here or just passing through, here is how to handle the current conditions:
💡 You might also like: Flights From Fort Lauderdale to LaGuardia: What Most People Get Wrong
- Hydrate more than you think. The 58% to 87% humidity sounds high, but at these temperatures and elevation, the air is incredibly dehydrating.
- Winterize your pipes. If you’re a local, remember that once it hits 20°F, those pipes are at risk. Tonight is close at 23°F, so stay vigilant.
- Check the north wind. Today’s 9 mph north wind will make that 53°F feel more like the mid-40s if you're in the shade. Stay in the sun to keep warm.
- Sunscreen is mandatory. At 5,600 feet, the atmosphere is thinner. That UV index of 3 hits harder than it does at sea level.
Basically, enjoy the clear skies today. It’s a perfect window for a trip to the Petrified Forest or just a walk through the historic downtown. Just make sure you’re back inside or bundled up before that 23°F low kicks in after sunset.