A Wind Advisory is in effect through 2 p.m. Saturday. Strong east winds could make driving difficult, stir up blowing dust and send unsecured items skittering across yards and patios.
Strong Winds Ease By Saturday Afternoon
The advisory calls for east to southeast winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph in parts of the region. The National Weather Service warns that high-profile vehicles may be especially difficult to control, while blowing dust could briefly reduce visibility below a mile in desert areas.
Dust Storms And Driving Guidance
In a separate earlier episode, the Arizona Republic reported that the National Weather Service in Tucson issued dust storm warnings covering Pima, Maricopa and Pinal counties on July 11. That was a dust-storm warning event, distinct from this weekend’s Wind Advisory; the reported information does not specify its impacts. For drivers who encounter blowing dust near Tucson, the Arizona Department of Transportation advises against stopping in a travel lane or emergency lane and says to turn off all vehicle lights, including emergency flashers.
Winds are expected to gradually weaken during the day, but Saturday will remain breezy with a high near 80 degrees. The day should be partly sunny, with precipitation possible.
Showers And Storm Chances Linger
Saturday night brings a 30% chance of rain showers and a low near 62 degrees. Sunday should reach about 83 degrees, with a chance of morning showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms later in the day.
The unsettled pattern continues next week, with slight chances of showers and thunderstorms Monday and Tuesday. Thursday has the week’s best rain potential, with a 40% chance. Friday turns sunny and cooler with a high near 74 degrees.
