Phoenix, AZ – Arizona residents are bracing for severe weather today as the Storm Prediction Center has placed most of central and southern Arizona under a slight risk (Level 2) for severe storms. Thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon, particularly across the higher terrain areas of eastern Arizona, with additional activity projected across the lower deserts into the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, these storms will bring strong to severe wind gusts, areas of blowing dust, and heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding. The likelihood of storms affecting the lower deserts is highest between 4-11 PM MST. Wind gusts of 35-55 mph and blowing dust reducing visibility to under one mile are major concerns.
A Blowing Dust Advisory is also in effect, impacting the lower deserts of south-central and southwest Arizona, including the lower Colorado River Valley. Visibility could be significantly reduced due to blowing dust, and hazardous driving conditions are anticipated on major highways such as I-10 and I-8.
Forecasters are advising residents to stay weather aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings. Average rainfall amounts are expected to range from 0.05-0.50 inches, with isolated areas potentially seeing 1.50-2.00 inches. The public is urged to avoid driving through flooded roads and to pull aside and stay alive if encountering dense blowing dust.
