Arizona weather forecast: Shifting storm system brings high wind gusts, scattered showers

PHOENIX - A beautiful start to the work week thanks to a passing system and cold front.

Monday:

Monday was a cooler than normal day across Arizona, with gusty winds, clouds and rain showers. 

Temperatures only climbed to 81 degrees in the Valley Monday afternoon, thanks to cloud cover for most of the day. Winds were breezy, gusting up to 29 mph. The high country saw even stronger winds, up to 51 mph in Show Low and Winslow. Wind advisories will remain in effect for northeast Arizona until 8 p.m. tonight. 

Rain showers will continue to move eastward across the state this evening and overnight. The heaviest rain will take place in the mountains and high country, a few spots in the high country will even see light snow accumulation. Flagstaff, Munds Park, the Grand Canyon, Kaibab Platea and Chuska Mountains will see light accumulation of around a trace to an inch. Locally higher amounts will be possible in the highest terrain, like Arizona Snowbowl and the Kaibab Plateau. The Valley will see light, spotty showers this evening and overnight. 

What to Expect This Week:

The winds, rain and snow will die down Tuesday, leading to a dry and sunny day for most. Only a few isolated showers will be possible in far northern Arizona Tuesday afternoon. Temperatures will cool down even more, with a high of around 79 degrees in the Valley. 

Totals in the 4-8" range are possible for snow over Arizona Snowbowl, which will open for "bonus days" Tuesday and Wednesday due to the forecast.

By Wednesday, the forecast jumps to 86 and remains in the mid to upper 80s for the rest of the work week and to start the weekend.

Big picture view:

The forecast remains dry in the Valley following tonight's frontal passage. There's a low chance of showers Tuesday in the High Country. Otherwise, the days ahead look dry and sunny to mostly sunny.

You can always check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.

Scroll down this page for satellite and radar, day planner, records, current temperatures, 10-day forecast, forecast highs, and recent rainfall totals, plus live video feeds.

The following heat safety information was provided by the Scottsdale Fire Department.

What are Heat Emergencies?

Heat Cramps: Profuse sweating, fatigue, extreme thirst, muscle cramps

Heat Exhaustion: Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea/vomit, Cool/moist skin

Heat Stroke: Elevated temp. +103degrees, confusion/irrational behavior, dry/hot skin, rapid shallow breathing, rapid weak pulse (shock), seizures, unconscious

What to do

• Get person into shade or cool location.
• Cool person with cool, wet cloths (neck, groin, armpits, head) and fan body.
• Sip cool water if person is alert.
• For muscle cramps, massage muscles gently, but firmly until relaxed.
• *If symptoms worsen, call 911.

What not to do

• Do not give anything by mouth if person is vomiting, unable to swallow or unconscious.
• Do not underestimate the seriousness of a heat emergency.
• Prevention/Preparation for hike/exercise in heat.

Know your limitations

• Hydrate (begins day prior to hike/exercise, hour before hike, during and after).
• Wear proper clothing, lightweight and light color, protect head, proper shoes.
• Always carry a cell phone and best to hike with company.
• Always tell someone where you are hiking and when to plan to return.

Preventing heat exhaustion/heat stroke

The Arizona Department of Health Services stated the following precautions can be taken to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

• Stay in air-conditioned buildings.
• Find a cooling center/hydration station.
• Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (mid-day).
• Check on at-risk friends, family, and neighbors at least twice a day.
• Drink water before, during, and after working or exercising outside.
• Check the UV Index.
• Check the heat risk map.

Road Conditions

• Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)

Rain/flood safety tips

The American Red Cross' tips for heavy rain situations and flood safety:

• Turn around don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
• If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
• If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
• Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.
• If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.
• If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

 

Preparing for a severe thunderstorm 

The American Red Cross' tips for preparing for a severe thunderstorm:

• Put together an emergency kit.
• Know your community’s evacuation plan.
• Create a household disaster plan and practice it.
• Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Discuss thunderstorm safety with members of your household. Be aware that a thunderstorm could produce flooding.
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or glass doors, which could be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.

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