Phoenix/ Weather & Environment

Phoenix Braces as Midweek Monsoon Aims to Drench Valley, Trigger Flash Floods

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Published on September 15, 2026
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Phoenix is starting Tuesday with a temporary lull and drier air, but the calm morning is not the whole story. The high should reach about 99 degrees, with showers and thunderstorms becoming more likely later in the day and especially overnight. By Wednesday, the Valley could see its wettest stretch of the week, along with a localized flash-flood threat.

Storm Chances Build Tuesday Night

The daytime rain chance is around 40%, with isolated showers and storms possible from the afternoon into the evening. Storm chances improve after midnight, when showers and thunderstorms become more likely.

According to the National Weather Service, the strongest concern is not simply whether rain falls, but how quickly it arrives. The forecast discussion gives average Phoenix-area rainfall of 0.5 to 1.0 inches, 1.0 to 1.5 inches over higher terrain, and pockets up to about 2 inches, which could produce rapid runoff and difficult driving conditions.

Wednesday Brings The Biggest Rain Risk

Showers and thunderstorms are likely Wednesday, particularly from the morning through early afternoon, with temperatures remaining below 100 degrees. The weather service describes widespread showers and thunderstorms Wednesday, with periods of moderate to heavy rain potentially extending across the Phoenix metro and into higher terrain north and east of the city.

A Flood Watch will likely be needed soon as the event develops. Drivers should avoid flooded roads, never cross moving water and allow extra time for commutes if storms move over the Valley.

Drier Weather Returns Before Another Heat Surge

Lower-desert rain chances mostly end Thursday, while heavy-rain potential also decreases. Temperatures warm later in the week, reaching around 105 degrees by Saturday, with slightly above-normal temperatures by the weekend.

The shift is a substantial update from the heat-focused outlook Hoodline previously reported. For now, Tuesday evening through Wednesday afternoon is the window to watch, with cooler temperatures arriving alongside the rain before the desert heat rebuilds this weekend.