Weather
Phoenix, AZ Severe Storm Watch Tonight Oct 21: 70 MPH Winds, 1-Inch Hail
Phoenix, AZ – Millions of residents across the Phoenix metropolitan area and portions of central and southwestern Arizona face a severe thunderstorm threat Wednesday afternoon and evening, Oct. 21, 20
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-21T21:29:21.798Z
Phoenix, AZ – Millions of residents across the Phoenix metropolitan area and portions of central and southwestern Arizona face a severe thunderstorm threat Wednesday afternoon and evening, Oct. 21, 2026, as forecasters warn of potentially damaging winds reaching 70 mph, large hail, frequent lightning and heavy rainfall. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. MST Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service NWS Phoenix office, the watch was issued at 1:58 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, covering portions of Arizona where thunderstorms could intensify into severe weather through the evening hours.
70 MPH Winds and Large Hail Possible
The primary threats include wind gusts reaching 70 mph and hail measuring 1 inch or larger in diameter.
Winds of this strength could damage trees, roofs and power lines, potentially causing scattered power outages and hazardous driving conditions.
Frequent lightning and heavy rainfall are also possible, creating additional concerns for motorists and residents outdoors.
Phoenix and Surrounding Communities Under Watch
The watch includes Phoenix, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Casa Grande, Gila Bend, Tonopah, New River and surrounding communities.
The NWS map also highlights areas extending toward Payson and Globe, while locations farther north and south may fall outside the designated watch area.
Residents should monitor local warnings as storms develop Wednesday afternoon and evening, Oct. 21.
Storm Threat Continues Until 9 PM Wednesday
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch is scheduled to remain active through 9 p.m. MST Wednesday, Oct. 21, although individual warnings could be issued if dangerous thunderstorms develop.
The NWS urges residents to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and seek shelter indoors, away from windows, when severe weather approaches.
A watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms, not that every community will experience damaging weather.