Monsoon Storms Could Bring Flash Flooding, 58 MPH Winds To Tucson

Monsoon storms could bring heavy rain, damaging wind gusts, blowing dust and flash flooding to Tucson and surrounding areas Monday. The National Weather Service said some storms may produce winds of at least 58 mph and hail up to 1 inch wide.

Storms are expected to develop near the White Mountains and Sky Islands around midday, then move into valley areas during the afternoon and evening. A Blowing Dust Advisory is in effect from 2 to 8 p.m. east of Tucson and from 4 to 10 p.m. in the western deserts as storms move west.

A haboob could form, especially as storms travel across Cochise County and pick up dust from dry lake beds. The greatest flood risk is south of Tucson, where a Flash Flood Watch remains in effect from 2 to 10 p.m. for areas including Nogales, southeastern Pima County and southwestern Cochise County.

Forecasters say 1 to 3 inches of rain could fall in some areas, causing rapid flooding in roads, washes, rivers and other low-lying locations. The Nogales Wash and Santa Cruz River could rise quickly. Storm chances will continue through the middle of the week, while clouds and rain gradually ease the extreme heat.