Valley Sees Significant Rainfall Overnight

Parts of Phoenix metro area receive over 0.25 inches of rain

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A storm system moved through the Phoenix area overnight, bringing strong winds and rain to several parts of the Valley. Early Tuesday morning, residents were greeted with wet roads, cold temperatures, and rainfall totals of up to 0.39 inches in some locations.

Why it matters

Significant rainfall events are relatively uncommon in the Phoenix metro area, which typically sees very little precipitation, especially during the winter months. This storm system provided a much-needed boost to the region's moisture levels and could help alleviate some of the ongoing drought conditions.

The details

According to 12News Meteorologist Ginger Jeffries, the rain chances will continue for a couple more days, but the main weather event should clear up by 9 a.m. on Tuesday. Several areas across the Valley saw notable rainfall totals, including 0.39 inches in New River and Bell Road, 0.20 inches in Greenway Road and 32nd Avenue, and 0.12 inches at the Phoenix Zoo.

  • The storm system moved through the Valley overnight on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • The rain continued into Tuesday morning, February 17, 2026.

The players

Ginger Jeffries

A 12News meteorologist who provided updates on the storm system and rainfall totals.

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What’s next

The rain is expected to taper off by mid-morning on Tuesday, but the Valley could see additional precipitation over the next couple of days as the storm system continues to move through the region.

The takeaway

This unexpected rainfall event is a welcome sight for the Phoenix area, which has been dealing with ongoing drought conditions. The precipitation could help replenish soil moisture and provide some relief to the region's water resources.