Wednesday’s Tucson Forecast: Historic temps…again

Last call for record heat.

Today’s forecast high of 96° would break the record of 95° set in 1988. In all, temperatures this afternoon run 15° above average for mid April. Mostly sunny skies are expected, along with gusty west winds up to 20 MPH.

Starting tomorrow, a powerful cold front provides a significant pattern shift.

Southeastern Arizona is under a Wind Advisory tomorrow as wind gusts reach 30-40 MPH. 50-60 MPH gusts are possible in the mountains Thursday, where a High Wind Watch is in effect. Drivers on I-10 should watch out for blowing dust near Picacho Peak & the Willcox Playa.

#WildfireIndex at critical levels tomorrow. Red Flag Warnings will be in effect. Fingers crossed we don't see anything flare up. #azwx #KVOAwx pic.twitter.com/jJmu5ZsEV2

— Jeff Beamish (@jeffbeamish) April 11, 2018

All of southern Arizona is under a Red Flag Warning from late Thursday morning until late Thursday night. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Behind the front, temperatures drop off 20-25°. With gusty winds lingering, highs Friday struggle to reach the low 70s in Tucson. Much of the metro area wakes up to the upper 30s to low 40s Saturday.

According to the National Weather Service, Tucson last recorded an April morning low in the 30s in 2011.

Warmer weather returns early next week. Highs approach the upper 80s Sunday and Monday.