FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Isolated severe storms could bring large hail, damaging wind gusts, and a brief tornado or two to parts of the Southwest on Wednesday. The risk area covers much of Arizona, far southern Utah, and far western New Mexico. An approaching upper-level low will bring strong winds aloft as moisture spreads north. That setup could support a few rotating storms during the day.
Severe Risk Covers Most of Arizona
The risk zone stretches from St. George, Kanab, and Page in the north to Nogales and Agua Prieta along the Mexico border. It includes Flagstaff, Prescott, Holbrook, and St. Johns in northern and central Arizona. The Phoenix metro, including Buckeye and Gilbert, is also inside the risk area.
To the south, Tucson, Globe, and Safford are included as well. The zone reaches east into New Mexico near Gallup, Silver City, and Lordsburg. Areas farther west, such as Las Vegas, Kingman, and Lake Havasu City, are outside the main risk.
Storms Begin Wednesday Morning
Showers and thunderstorms may already be underway across northern Arizona by Wednesday morning. Coverage is expected to expand through the day as moisture keeps flowing north. Storms could become more organized during the afternoon as daytime heating adds energy.
The strong winds aloft from the approaching low will help storms rotate. That is why a few storms could turn severe even though this is late in the season. Storm activity may continue into the evening in some areas.
Hail and Damaging Winds Are the Main Threats
Large hail and damaging wind gusts are the biggest concerns with the strongest storms. Hail can damage vehicles, roofs, and windows, especially in more intense cells. Strong winds may knock down tree limbs and power lines and blow loose objects around…