LIVE BLOG: Arizona Braces for an Evening Monsoon Showdown

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Metro area is bracing for a diverse array of monsoon weather conditions starting Wednesday afternoon. Expect a mix of heat, humidity, gusty winds, and potential thunderstorms as storms begin to move through the lower deserts.

Thunderstorms may roll in by 4 p.m., with increasing chances into the evening. A Flood Watch is in effect for Tucson after noon, while a Blowing Dust Advisory will start at 1 p.m. south of Phoenix. Most storm activity is expected this evening, diminishing around 10 p.m., but measurable rainfall could follow into Thursday morning.

At 5:00 p.m., a flash flood warning was issued for the Agua Fria River near Cordes Lakes, where stream gauges reported a five-foot rise due to earlier thunderstorms. Areas likely to experience flash flooding include Agua Fria National Monument, Black Canyon City, and Rock Springs.

Earlier in the day, storms were also reported near Canyon and Apache Lake recreational areas, prompting warnings for wind gusts of 30-40 mph, along with lightning and heavy rain. A severe thunderstorm warning was in effect for Mayer until 2:30 p.m., affecting nearby communities such as Cordes Junction and Dewey-Humboldt.

This afternoon, flash flood warnings were issued for Big Bug Creek until 4:30 p.m., with the National Weather Service advising residents to stay alert.

Despite the stormy outlook, the morning saw clear skies, albeit hazy, across the Valley. The overnight low at Sky Harbor was recorded at 92 degrees, which is significantly above average. If temperatures do not dip below that tonight, it could tie the record for the warmest low temperature set in 2024.