Monsoon Storms Could Bring Heavy Rain, Flash Flooding To Tucson Area

TUCSON, AZ — Another round of monsoon storms is moving across Southeast Arizona, with several days of showers and thunderstorms expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds and the potential for localized flash flooding through Thursday.

The National Weather Service in Tucson said deep moisture over the region will keep storm chances elevated for the next several days.

Many storms could produce a half-inch to 1 inch of rain, while stronger storms could drop 1 to 3 inches in a short period.

That could quickly flood streets, washes and low-lying areas, particularly where storms repeatedly move over the same location.

Wednesday's storm activity remains difficult to pinpoint, forecasters said. Morning clouds and lingering showers could delay the typical afternoon buildup, potentially pushing some of the stronger storms into the evening.

The Weather Prediction Center has expanded its excessive rainfall outlook across much of Southeast Arizona. However, the National Weather Service had not issued a Flash Flood Watch early Wednesday because forecasters remained uncertain about where and when the most intense storms would develop.

Another round of showers and thunderstorms could develop overnight Wednesday, with the best chances in Pinal, Graham and Greenlee counties.

In addition to heavy rain, storms could bring dangerous lightning, gusty and erratic winds and sharply reduced visibility.

The weather service said visibility could briefly drop to 1 mile or less in heavy rain. Wind gusts near thunderstorms could reach 35 to 45 knots, or roughly 40 to 50 mph.

Tucson has a chance of thunderstorms through Thursday, with highs expected to remain in the low 90s. The weather pattern is expected to become drier Friday, although isolated thunderstorms could still develop, mainly south and east of Tucson.

Residents should avoid driving through flooded roadways and stay out of washes during storms. The weather service also recommends monitoring changing conditions before heading out, particularly during periods of heavy rain.