Dust Risk-Based Forecast | Maricopa County

Updated On: 01/20/22 - 8:41 AM       [View Previous Forecast]

Friday

Stagnation: Morning and evening stagnation

Wind: Mainly light winds

Saturday

Stagnation: Morning and evening stagnation

Wind: Northeasterly winds of 5-15 mph

Sunday

Stagnation: Morning and evening stagnation

Wind: Northeasterly winds of 10-20 mph

Monday

Stagnation: Morning and evening stagnation

Wind: Mainly light winds

Tuesday

Stagnation: Morning and evening stagnation

Wind: Mainly light winds

Forecast Discussion:

Today we will continue to see temperatures a couple of degrees above normal for this time of year along with dry conditions. This weather story will progress through tomorrow until we hit Saturday when our tune will be modified.

Although we are seeing one trough exit the region, another will soon follow this weekend. A system that is currently off the West Coast of Canada will dip down through the Southwest region on Saturday resulting in breezy easterly winds and slight chances for showers. Areas of higher terrain will see greater amounts of accumulation, but the valley could still see anywhere from 0.01 to 0.10 inches of rain. Most precipitation will occur in the late afternoon/evening hours on Saturday.

As we approach the beginning of next week, we'll experience another calm couple of days before another disturbance potentially influences the state. Maybe we will get another round of rain as well! But we'll have more on that system tomorrow.

In regards to air quality, stagnate conditions mixed with industrial/local activity continues to raise particulates in the morning and evening hours. Moderate AQI category is forecasted for PM10 and PM2.5 for the workweek days in this forecast period. Over the weekend, we drop both particulates down to the Good AQI range due to rain chances and better ventilation. There are no concerns with ozone at this time.

Dust concern in Maricopa County will be at low risk for this forecast period. Elevated hours of PM10 will be a result of stagnation and industrial activity

Have a great day!

- P. Swenson
ADEQ Meteorologist