Windy conditions sweep through Yuma

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) -Strong winds and cooler temperatures made for a noticeably different day across Yuma, with blowing dust lingering into the evening hours.

While some residents stayed indoors, others embraced the change in weather. Along the Colorado River, Marcia Glass said she found the gusty conditions interesting.

“It’s crazy. I’ve been watching the river, because it’s going every which way with the waves and I just think it’s interesting. Not a lot of people have been around and I’ve been here for a while,” Glass said.

As residents dealt with the gusty conditions, city officials also shared an important reminder about water use. The Yuma Public Utilities Department says windy weather can cause sprinkler water to blow onto sidewalks and streets instead of soaking into lawns.

Cinthia Mota Miramontes, the department's Water Conservation Program Coordinator, explained that wind also increases evaporation, meaning even more water is lost before plants can absorb it. Because of that, officials recommend skipping irrigation on especially windy days and waiting for calmer conditions.

City officials say holding off on watering during windy weather can help conserve water and ensure it’s not wasted.