The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an urgent Freeze Warning for six counties across southern and central Arizona, effective through 9 AM MST on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
The warning, which was reaffirmed early Friday morning by both the Tucson and Phoenix offices of the NWS, alerts residents to dangerously cold overnight temperatures ranging from 18 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on location and elevation.
Counties Affected:
- Tohono O’odham Nation
- Pinal County (South Central, Southeast, Northwest, and West)
- Pima County (Tucson Metro, Upper Santa Cruz River Valley, Altar Valley)
- Cochise County (Below 5000 feet, Upper San Pedro River Valley)
- Gila County (Upper Gila River Valley, Globe/Miami, San Carlos)
- La Paz County (Central La Paz, Dripping Springs)
Expected Temperatures:
- Friday morning lows: 28°–35°F
- Saturday morning lows: 18°–32°F
These temperatures are well below seasonal averages, particularly alarming for typically milder desert regions like Tucson, Globe, and Queen Creek.
“We urge residents to take protective measures immediately,” said a spokesperson from the National Weather Service Tucson office early Friday. “Exposed pipes, pets, and tender plants are especially vulnerable during events like this.”
Rural and Urban Areas Alike at Risk
From urban centers like Tucson, Marana, and Queen Creek to more rural communities such as Safford, Douglas, and San Carlos, the warning spans a diverse geographical area. The cold snap is driven by a high-pressure system bringing clear skies and calm winds, the perfect recipe for rapid overnight cooling…