A new wave of wet weather is heading for the Desert Southwest this week, prompting a First Alert Action Day for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Forecasters say the system will bring periods of rain, breezy conditions, and potential travel impacts as 2025 comes to a close and 2026 begins.
Breezy Start to the Week, Cooler Nights Ahead
Meteorologists report that the final Monday of 2025 brought seasonable temperatures and breezy conditions, with winds gusting between 20–25 mph across Yuma and surrounding areas. Those breezy conditions will continue into Tuesday, with northerly winds gusting 20–30 mph throughout the day.
Evening and overnight temperatures are expected to turn chilly, thanks to dry air and persistent breezes.
Midweek Storm System to Bring Rain Across the Region
A new weather system is forecast to arrive by the middle of the week, bringing widespread rain showers to the Desert Southwest. This will mark one of the first notable wet periods heading into the New Year, a rare but welcome sight for the typically dry region.
Rain chances will increase steadily through Tuesday and Wednesday, with New Year’s Day projected to be the wettest day of the week.
New Year’s Eve: Light Showers Developing in the Afternoon
On New Year’s Eve, forecasters expect light showers to begin forming by the afternoon, continuing into the evening hours. While rainfall will be modest, forecasters emphasize that even a tenth of an inch or less can lead to slick roads and increased travel risks—especially during holiday celebrations.
New Year’s Day: Highest Chance of Rain, Travel Impacts Possible
New Year’s Day is expected to bring the heaviest and most widespread rain, though totals remain relatively low. Weather models currently show rainfall amounts near 0.10 inches or less, but forecasters caution that any steady moisture can create wet roads and reduced visibility.
Drivers planning to travel on New Year’s Day are urged to use caution and prepare for breezy winds, intermittent showers, and cooler temperatures.
First Alert Action Day Issued
Due to the timing and travel impacts associated with the incoming rain, the Weather Authority has issued a First Alert Action Day from New Year’s Eve night through New Year’s Day. This alert is meant to highlight the potential for:
- Wet and slippery roads
- Reduced visibility
- Slowdowns during holiday travel
- Weather-related delays to outdoor New Year’s plans
Late Week Outlook
Beyond Wednesday and Thursday’s rain event, temperatures will remain seasonable, and winds are expected to calm as the storm moves out of the region. Dry and mild conditions are likely to return as the Desert Southwest heads into the first weekend of 2026.
Summary
A midweek storm system will bring breezy conditions, scattered rain showers, and potential travel impacts to the Desert Southwest as 2025 ends. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are expected to be the wettest periods, prompting a First Alert Action Day. Stay prepared and keep up with the latest weather updates at HonkNews.com.