Weather
Northern Arizona Tornado Watch Today: 70 MPH Winds, Large Hail Possible Oct 21
Flagstaff, AZ – A tornado watch has been issued for portions of northern Arizona Wednesday, Oct. 21, as powerful thunderstorms threaten communities with possible tornadoes, damaging wind gusts up to 7
By Nolan Pierce · 2026-10-21T17:16:45.068Z
Flagstaff, AZ – A tornado watch has been issued for portions of northern Arizona Wednesday, Oct. 21, as powerful thunderstorms threaten communities with possible tornadoes, damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail potentially reaching tennis ball size.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, the tornado watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. MST Wednesday , covering portions of Navajo, Coconino and Yavapai counties and additional areas shown in the official watch map.
Forecasters said multiple tornado warnings and severe thunderstorm warnings had already been issued Wednesday morning, with the threat of additional severe weather continuing throughout the day.
Tornadoes, Damaging Winds and Large Hail Possible
The National Weather Service warns that a few tornadoes are possible within the watch area.
Severe thunderstorms could also produce scattered damaging wind gusts reaching 70 mph, along with hail as large as tennis balls.
These conditions could damage vehicles, roofs, windows and exposed property, while strong winds may bring down trees or power lines.
Northern Arizona Communities Under Watch
The watch area includes communities around Flagstaff, Winslow, Tuba City, Prescott Valley and other portions of northern Arizona.
The official watch graphic estimates approximately 675,516 people, 355 schools and 20 hospitals are located within the affected area.
Residents should remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly during the afternoon and early evening.
What Residents Should Do
A tornado watch means atmospheric conditions are favorable for tornado development, but it does not mean a tornado is occurring at every location.
If a tornado warning is issued, residents should immediately seek shelter in a basement or small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
Drivers should avoid stopping beneath highway overpasses and seek substantial shelter when possible.
The National Weather Service urges residents to keep multiple methods of receiving emergency warnings available throughout the day.
The tornado watch is scheduled to expire at 6 p.m. MST Wednesday unless officials extend, replace or cancel it earlier.