News Summary
Arizona is set to experience heavy rainfall as remnants of Hurricane Priscilla bring an influx of tropical moisture. The National Weather Service reports rainfall could exceed averages for October, raising concerns about localized flooding. With a 60% chance of precipitation, residents are advised to prepare for significant rain starting late Thursday. The unusual wet weather follows a series of warm days, prompting monitoring and updates as the situation evolves.
Arizona Braces for Unusually Wet Weekend as Remnants of Hurricane Priscilla Bring Heavy Rain Chances
Arizona is preparing for an influx of tropical moisture from the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla, which is expected to significantly impact the state starting Thursday, October 9, and lasting through Tuesday, October 14. This wet weather pattern is unusual for the month of October as the traditional monsoon season has already concluded.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Phoenix forecasts that moisture levels could soar to between 200% to 300% of normal for this time of year. The predicted rainfall amounts vary widely, with estimates ranging from minor trace amounts to over 2.5 inches in some areas. Rain chances are set to begin at 50% by late Thursday and rise to 60% through Saturday, indicating a substantial likelihood for precipitation.
Historically, Phoenix averages only 0.56 inches of rain in October. Therefore, this weekend’s forecast points to a possibility of experiencing above-average rainfall, as areas previously affected by late September’s monsoon storms received up to 2 inches of rain, with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport recording 1.64 inches during that time.
Forecast Details
With the arrival of moisture from Priscilla and interaction with an incoming trough off the Pacific Coast, meteorologist Katherine Berislavich described this weather event as “low-confidence, high-impact.” Discrepancies among weather models suggest varying outcomes, leading to uncertainty in precise rainfall totals.
Southeast California and western Arizona are anticipated to experience rain initially, while central Arizona is expected to see showers later in the weekend. Forecasters have identified a 20% chance that certain areas may receive more than 2 inches of rainfall, which raises concerns about localized flooding.
Temperature Expectations
Prior to the arrival of this weather system, Arizona will continue to experience higher-than-normal fall temperatures. Highs are expected to remain in the mid-to-upper 90s, possibly reaching up to 100 degrees by midweek. Emergency management officials note that the heat risk for vulnerable groups is considered minor to moderate, and individuals are advised to take precautions.
Ongoing Monitoring
As forecasters monitor the situation, it is expected that there will be greater clarity on rainfall predictions by midweek as weather modeling begins to converge. In addition to the potential rain from Hurricane Priscilla, there may be additional rain that lingers beyond the weekend, attributable to another possible tropical system and a Pacific storm that could further impact Arizona.
Conclusion
As residents prepare for the upcoming weather, it is essential to stay informed about changing conditions and potential impacts in their areas. The unusually wet weather raises expectations for significant rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding. Continuously monitoring weather updates will be crucial as the situation unfolds.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Phoenix Weather Forecast: Rising Temperatures and Potential Rain
Additional Resources
- KTAR News
- AZCentral
- AZFamily
- ABC15
- Weather.com
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Priscilla
- Google Search: Hurricane Priscilla
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Priscilla
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Priscilla
- Google News: Hurricane Priscilla
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
