Phoenix/ Weather & Environment

Dust-Up in Phoenix: Wind Advisory Whips Valley Before Weekend Cooldown

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Published on October 16, 2026
Dust-Up in Phoenix: Wind Advisory Whips Valley Before Weekend CooldownSource: Google Street View

Phoenix started Friday under clear skies and temperatures around 77 degrees, but the calm morning setup will give way to a windy and potentially dusty afternoon. A Wind Advisory is in effect across the metro area as east winds build through the middle of the day.

Strong Winds Could Kick Up Dust

The advisory runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, with east winds of 15 to 25 mph and gusts reaching 35 to 45 mph expected, according to the National Weather Service. The Phoenix area should reach about 89 degrees.

Blowing dust could create brief visibility drops, including localized areas where visibility falls below a mile. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use extra caution, and lightweight outdoor items may need to be secured before the strongest gusts arrive.

Cooler Weekend With A Small Shower Chance

Saturday will be noticeably cooler, with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 81 degrees. A slight chance of rain showers is possible mainly in the afternoon, with a 20% chance of precipitation and another small shower chance Saturday night.

Sunday looks mostly sunny with a high near 84 degrees as winds weaken. The weekend rain chances appear limited, with any rainfall expected to be light.

Rain Chances Increase Next Week

Monday stays mostly sunny, with a slight chance of light showers or virga in higher terrain. Tuesday brings another small precipitation chance, while Wednesday has a 20% precipitation chance and Thursday a 30% chance, as highs reach 84 degrees Wednesday and 79 Thursday.