[ADEQ Forecasts] ADEQ Daily Air Quality Forecast - Saturday, February 27, 2010

[forecasts@lists.azdeq.gov]

For more information, please visit our Web page:
http://www.azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf

For transportation alternatives:
http://www.valleymetro.org


Health message for Friday, February 26: No health impacts are expected.

Health message for Saturday, February 27: Unusually sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged exertion outdoors.


Synopsis and Discussion
A significant cold front will move through the region Saturday afternoon and evening.  Winds are forecast to increase out of the south and southwest to around 10-20 mph in the Phoenix forecast area.  Increased moisture will accompany the front, leading to the development of showers and even a few thunderstorms.  Typical with thunderstorms, gusty local winds, brief heavy rain and small hail are possible.  Rain will continue into overnight hours, ending early Sunday.  Valley storm totals will range from a half to one inch.  As skies clear Sunday, the high temperatures across the deserts will struggle to reach the mid 60s.  High pressure quickly rebounds Monday, warming the Valley back into the lower 70s.

Saturday afternoon's strong winds could produce some isolated pockets of blowing dust.  This could lead to reduced visibility at times while sending PM-10 and PM-2.5 concentrations higher.  Since rain is expected to closely follow the winds, 24-hr concentrations should remain well below the health standard.  "Good" air quality levels will resume on Sunday as the system moves out, leaving behind clear skies and greatly improved visibility.

Check back on Sunday for a glimpse of next week's weather and air quality.  Until then, have a great weekend!  -J.Paul


If you have any questions or comments regarding this forecast please contact:

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Office of Communications
1110 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 771-2215
ms15@azdeq.gov

 
 

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