Flagstaff, Ariz. – Dangerous crosswinds will sweep across northern Arizona Friday as a Wind Advisory goes into effect for the Western Mogollon Rim, raising risks for travel on I-40 and surrounding highways. Gusts up to 45 mph could bring down tree limbs and unsecured objects, with scattered power outages possible.
According to the National Weather Service Flagstaff office, the advisory begins at 11 a.m. Friday and continues until 7 p.m. Winds from the south and southwest will increase to 20–30 mph, peaking in the afternoon with occasional stronger bursts. The highest impacts are expected near Flagstaff, Williams, and Mounds Park.
Transportation officials warn that high-profile vehicles—including RVs, campers, and tractor trailers—will face the greatest challenges along exposed stretches of I-40 and US-89. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, sudden gusts may cause dangerous sway or tip-over risks, especially during afternoon travel. Motorists are urged to delay trips if possible or use extreme caution.
Residents should secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, trash bins, and holiday decorations that could become airborne. Emergency managers also caution that sporadic power interruptions may occur if tree limbs strike lines. Crews are preparing for quick response if outages develop.
While skies will stay clear and temperatures remain seasonable in the 60s and 70s, conditions will not ease until winds taper after sunset. Calmer weather is expected by Saturday, offering a much quieter start to the weekend across northern Arizona.
Five-Day Forecast for Flagstaff, AZ:
Fri: 72/42 – Sunny, very breezy; gusts up to 45 mph may disrupt travel.
Sat: 65/32 – Sunny, calmer winds; cooler evening.
Sun: 66/37 – Sunny, light winds.
Mon: 67/40 – Mostly clear; breezy afternoon gusts near 20 mph.
Tue: 71/42 – Mostly sunny; southwest winds gusting to 25 mph.
