Earlier this month, the West Coast was hit with a string of storms that caused mudslides and closed roads in parts of California.
But further east, the unusual weather patterns created a beautiful sight in the Arizona desert, as falling snow transformed the arid landscape into a winter wonderland.
Temperatures across the state were the lowest in years, with even Phoenix feeling chilly at 30 degrees the day after New Year's. The rare snowfall was also pretty intense, with up to six inches falling around Tucson.
Arizonans took advantage of their "magical" change of scenery, rushing to snap photos of cacti and landmarks like the Grand Canyon under the fresh powder.
Many schools and government agencies also closed down, so there was more time for families to get out an appreciate the sights.
If you actually have to shovel snow during the winter, you probably don't greet the changing seasons as warmly as they did. But we can still appreciate how the winter weather was novel for the warm and dry state.
Plus, the photos locals captured are just spectacular.
Sedona
Vail
Monument Valley Tribal Park
Admiring the snow at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Arizona. The views are stunning. pic.twitter.com/AaSjuyCc6F
— Martin Perez, Jr (@martinjrperez) January 3, 2019
Rim Trail
Sahuarita
Desert Mountain
Grand Canyon
Heavy snow falling at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon this morning. Measured a little over 8 inches so far along the rim trail. #azwx pic.twitter.com/YlN9udEr6I
— John Sirlin (@SirlinJohn) January 6, 2019
Four Peaks
Empire Mountains
Saguaro National Park
Another look at the snow this morning in Saguaro National Park. Such a beautiful scene! #azwx pic.twitter.com/bkkIdK8Dkr
— John Sirlin (@SirlinJohn) January 2, 2019
Tombstone
Good morning LIVE from snowy Tombstone!
Posted by Tombstone Arizona on Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Hotwell Dunes
[H/T: Fox News]
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