Phoenix, Arizona – Rain chances and gusty winds return Wednesday, creating travel impacts across central Arizona.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, a second weather system will sweep through the Southwest midweek, bringing renewed rain chances and widespread breezy to windy conditions. Rain chances will be lower than earlier systems and mainly focused over central and northern Arizona.
Showers are expected to develop Wednesday mid-morning and continue into the afternoon. Lower desert rainfall totals are forecast to remain light, while higher terrain north and east of Phoenix may see greater coverage.
A Wind Advisory is in effect early Wednesday morning through mid-to-late afternoon for portions of the region, including southwest Imperial County, California, until 3 p.m. PST Wednesday.
Forecast wind gusts across the Phoenix metro area and surrounding deserts are expected between 30 and 45 mph. Valleys may see sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph, with stronger gusts in higher terrain.
Drivers along Interstate 10 through Phoenix and Casa Grande, Interstate 17 toward Prescott, and Loop 101 around Scottsdale may experience difficult driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles. Blowing dust and sand could locally reduce visibility in open desert areas.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor objects that could become airborne in strong winds.
Conditions are expected to improve by late Wednesday afternoon as the system exits the region.
Commuters and delivery drivers should allow extra time during peak wind and shower activity.
