Drivers across Tucson and Southeast Arizona should prepare for changing travel conditions this weekend as an upper-level storm system moves north out of Sonora, Mexico, bringing scattered showers and a slight chance for thunderstorms, especially on Sunday and Sunday night.
While rainfall amounts are expected to remain generally light, even modest precipitation can have an outsized impact on desert roadways. Forecast totals suggest up to one-tenth of an inch of rain in valley locations, including Tucson and surrounding metro areas, with up to one-quarter inch possible in higher terrain, particularly south of Tucson and along mountain routes such as Mount Lemmon Highway, State Route 83, and roadways near the Santa Rita and Huachuca Mountains.
Showers may begin as early as Saturday, but the greatest coverage and highest travel impact is expected Sunday afternoon through Sunday night. A few embedded thunderstorms are possible, which could briefly increase rainfall rates and reduce visibility. Motorists should watch for slick pavement, ponding on roadways, and sudden visibility reductions, especially after sunset.
Although widespread flooding is not anticipated, urban intersections, washes, and low-lying roads may experience brief water accumulation during heavier showers. Drivers are urged to slow down on wet roads, allow extra stopping distance, and use headlights during periods of rain.
Those traveling into higher elevations should be especially cautious, as cooler temperatures and increased rainfall can lead to rapidly changing road conditions. Outdoor plans on Sunday may need flexibility, particularly during the evening hours.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Sunday night into Monday as the storm system moves east. Until then, residents and travelers across Tucson, Pima County, and Southeast Arizona should remain weather-aware and monitor updates for any changes in timing or intensity.
