Residents across northern Arizona, especially around Flagstaff, should brace for strong, gusty winds Friday, with speeds expected to reach up to 55 mph in some areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Flagstaff has issued an advisory, warning locals to secure outdoor items and prepare for potential power outages and challenging driving conditions.
According to the NWS, winds will intensify Friday morning, with peak gusts likely in the afternoon. Affected areas include regions along and east of higher terrain, particularly near I-40, where travelers may face reduced visibility and hazardous crosswinds. High-profile vehicles, including trucks and RVs, are at greater risk and should avoid traveling through exposed areas if possible. These wind speeds also raise the likelihood of downed tree limbs, which could impact power lines and cause outages in localized regions.
Friday’s forecast shows a high of 48°F in Flagstaff, with partly cloudy skies and wind speeds of 25 to 30 mph, increasing to gusts as high as 55 mph in some areas. By Friday night, winds are expected to settle somewhat but may still gust up to 29 mph, with lows dropping to a chilly 17°F.
Looking ahead, the weather will stabilize over the weekend. Saturday is expected to be sunny with calmer winds, peaking at 42°F. The pleasant, sunny conditions will continue into Sunday, offering a break from the turbulent winds, with a high of 45°F. By Monday, temperatures will rise slightly to around 50°F, with moderate winds of 8 to 14 mph.
Residents are encouraged to delay outdoor activities, such as setting up holiday decorations, until after Friday’s high winds subside. Ensure all unsecured items are safely stored and stay updated on local advisories for potential changes to the forecast.
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