Saturday, May 17, 2014

Ozone Concern and Triple Digit Heat for the Desert Valley

Staff Writer, DB Holmes
Weather / Air Quality
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Phoenix should have a quiet weather weekend as winds are subdued and temperatures remain hot. Ozone rose but now the westerly winds will pick up the smoke from the California wildfires. People with respiratory issues should take note.

Here is the rest of the forecast:
Forecast Discussion: Ozone levels soared into the upper Moderate range across the forecast area on Thursday, and that was without the help of southern California wildfire smoke. Now that the flow has switched out of the west, the likelihood of smoke-enhanced ozone affecting Arizona increases. In fact, locations north of the Valley (Prescott, Flagstaff) could see elevated concentrations the next several days. Locally, Valley concentrations will remain in the upper part of the Moderate range through Sunday. Winds will increase Sunday afternoon as another trough of low pressure approaches the region. This should break up the invisible daily plume of ozone, effectively lowering concentrations. PM10 levels should also remain in the Good range the next several days, increasing Sunday through early next week with stronger winds. Expect daytime temperatures to reach 102-104°F Friday through Sunday, decreasing Monday. Unfortunately, no rain is in the forecast for at least another 2 weeks.


Source: AIRNow