Phoenix is expected to see mostly cloudy skies Wednesday, with a high in the mid to upper 80s, but the quiet start will not last. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to build through the day, with the most serious weather arriving from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday.
The National Weather Service Phoenix office has placed the metro area under a Flood Watch from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening. Heavy downpours could produce flash flooding in low-lying areas and washes, while stronger storms may bring damaging wind gusts, large hail and an isolated tornado.
Storm Threat Builds Wednesday Afternoon
Wednesday’s high is forecast near 86 degrees, with afternoon temperatures in the mid to upper 80s as clouds and storms increase. Rain chances rise through the day, and winds will generally run 5 to 10 mph from the east and southeast, with stronger and more erratic gusts possible near thunderstorms.
The heaviest and most widespread activity may arrive Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Forecasters say rainfall could fall quickly enough to overwhelm drainage in places, and some areas may see intense rainfall rates that make normally passable roads and crossings dangerous.
Thursday Stays Wet Before A Sharp Weather Turn
Showers and thunderstorms are likely Thursday morning, followed by additional storm chances into the afternoon. The high should reach only about 82 degrees, with wind gusts up to 20 mph possible as the system moves through.
Conditions are expected to improve Thursday night, when skies turn partly cloudy and temperatures drop to around 66 degrees. Friday then brings a much calmer pattern, with sunny skies, light winds and a high near 78.
Sunny, Cooler Weekend Ahead
Saturday and Sunday should remain sunny, with highs near 78 and 80 degrees and overnight lows in the low 60s. Temperatures rebound to the low 80s Monday and Tuesday, but the immediate priority for Phoenix residents is getting through the flood-watch period safely.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads and never cross moving water, even if the water appears shallow. Keep an eye on updated warnings Wednesday afternoon through Thursday, particularly if storms develop near your neighborhood or commute.
