PHOENIX, Ariz. – Monsoon storms are set to flare up across Arizona Wednesday afternoon, with strong winds and bursts of heavy rain possible in both higher terrain and parts of the lower deserts. Drivers could encounter reduced visibility from blowing dust and slick roads as cells move through into the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, thunderstorms will be most common across southeastern Arizona’s higher elevations, but a few may drift into lower desert areas, including parts of south-central Arizona. Some storms may produce gusts topping 35 mph, with stronger outflow winds in more intense cells.
Localized heavy rainfall could cause brief ponding on roads, especially in low-lying areas. Dust plumes from outflow winds are also likely to impact travel on major corridors, including stretches of Interstate 10 between Tucson and Phoenix. Motorists are urged to slow down, keep headlights on in dust, and avoid driving through flooded washes.
Storm chances will taper off overnight, but additional rounds of monsoon activity are expected later this week.
