Tucson, Ariz. – Drivers in southern Arizona could face hazardous travel Tuesday afternoon as thunderstorms build across Tucson and Interstate 10. Heavy downpours may reduce visibility and create ponding on roads during peak commuting hours. Officials urge drivers to slow down and avoid flooded intersections.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, storm chances rise sharply by late Tuesday morning, with an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms through the afternoon. Gusty winds and lightning may accompany stronger cells, with rainfall heavy enough to trigger flash flood advisories. Skies stay unsettled into Tuesday night before clearing gradually by Wednesday.
The weather shift comes ahead of Labor Day weekend, when Tucson residents can expect triple-digit heat to return. Highs rebound into the low 100s by Friday and Saturday, with Sunday topping out near 103 degrees. The combination of hot afternoons and lingering moisture could produce isolated storms through midweek, but the weekend looks mostly dry.
Travelers planning outdoor events or road trips should use caution Tuesday and monitor weather alerts closely. Afternoon storms could impact I-10, Route 86, and surface streets in Pima County. Keep phones charged, avoid unnecessary travel during downpours, and allow extra time for commutes.
Warnings remain in effect through Tuesday night, with additional updates expected if storm intensity increases.
Five-Day Forecast for Tucson, AZ
- Tuesday: Showers and storms likely, high near 95°F. Storm chances 80%.
- Wednesday: Slight chance of storms early, clearing, high near 96°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 98°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 100°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 102°F.
- Sunday (Labor Day weekend): Mostly sunny, high near 103°F.
