Southwest Thanksgiving Weather Forecast: Warm Holiday Week, Cooler Days Ahead for California, Arizona & Nevada
Residents across the Southwest are getting a pleasant surprise this Thanksgiving week as temperatures remain warmer than usual — but a noticeable cooldown is on the way as December approaches. Weather experts say the region will experience a brief period of above-normal warmth before shifting into a more seasonable, and in some areas colder, pattern next month.
Warm and Comfortable Conditions for Holiday Travel
Thanksgiving travelers in California, Arizona and Nevada are expected to enjoy ideal weather for road trips, flights, and outdoor holiday gatherings. Clear skies and dry air dominate most of the region, creating a perfect window for millions of people moving through major cities and highways.
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Phoenix and Las Vegas are expected to remain several degrees above average, with daytime highs reaching into the low or mid-70s.
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California’s inland valleys will also see mild afternoons, keeping holiday traffic flowing smoothly.
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Coastal areas should experience calm conditions with little chance of rain or strong winds.
This warm spell is typical for late fall in the desert Southwest, but temperatures are trending even higher than normal, allowing for comfortable outdoor plans and easy travel.
December Brings a Shift Toward Cooler Weather
While the Thanksgiving week feels more like an extended autumn, early December is likely to introduce a stronger winter influence. Forecast patterns show colder air pushing into parts of California, Arizona and Nevada once the month begins.
Residents should prepare for:
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Cooler mornings and evenings, especially in desert valleys.
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Possible frost in higher elevations and colder basins.
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More active weather systems that could bring clouds and light precipitation to select areas.
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Below-normal temperatures in some regions, particularly across southern California and western Arizona.
This pattern shift is tied to changes in upper-level winds, which often direct cooler air toward the Southwest during early winter.
What Travelers and Residents Should Keep in Mind
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Enjoy the warm holiday window: The Thanksgiving forecast is nearly perfect for travel, celebrations, and outdoor activities.
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Prepare for cooler weather after the holiday: If you’re staying into December, pack layers and winter essentials.
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Stay updated if traveling through higher elevations: Some mountain corridors could see early-season chill or frost.
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Plan ahead for winter maintenance: With a colder pattern developing, homeowners should check heating systems and outdoor plumbing.
A Classic Southwest Weather Transition
The region’s Thanksgiving-to-December pattern is a reminder of how quickly the Southwest can shift from warm, dry conditions to winterlike temperatures. While this week offers a comfortable break, early December may introduce the season’s first true cold spell for many communities.
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