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MOST ACCURATE FORECAST: Monsoon storm chances ramping up this week in the Valley

Chances for monsoon storms are in the forecast all week! In fact, we're expecting to tap into some remnant moisture from Hurricane Lorena which will really ramp up storm chances Thursday through Saturday across Arizona.

Monsoon storm chances ramping up this week in the Valley

By: Amber Sullins

Posted

and last updated

PHOENIX — Chances for monsoon storms are ramping up!

Remnant moisture from Hurricane Lorena will get caught up in our monsoon flow and significantly increase storm chances on Thursday and Friday in the Valley.

We could see blowing dust, damaging wind gusts, dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning, and pockets of heavy rain that could lead to flooding.

Across southeastern Arizona, a Flood Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon until Saturday afternoon. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches, with up to 4 inches in the mountains, are possible across this part of our state.

Here in the Valley, we are expecting the majority of the rain to fall on Thursday evening, but storm chances will continue into the start of the weekend.

As storm chances ramp up and cloud coverage moves in, temperatures will drop significantly.

In Phoenix, daytime highs will fall into the mid 90s on Friday and Saturday, putting us nearly 10 degrees below normal for early September.

Air quality is also a concern, with both ozone and particle pollution (dust) spread across the Valley.

An Ozone High Pollution Advisory is in effect on Wednesday.

Breathing in ozone pollution can cause chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, congestion, and difficulty breathing. Children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, or COPD are especially at risk. To stay safe, limit time outdoors during the afternoon peak.

Everyone can help reduce ozone pollution by carpooling, using public transportation, working from home, avoiding long drive-thru lines, and waiting until after dark to refuel gas-powered vehicles.