Below-average temperatures to kick-off the first day of summer

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY-TV) - Today is the start of the Summer Solstice, and we have average highs trending below normal to begin the first official day of summer.

What does the Summer Solstice mean? Well, this is a day with the longest day and shortest night for everyone in the Northern Hemisphere, and those in the Southern Hemisphere will have the shortest day and longest night.

A strong upper level low pressure system centered offshore of the Pacific Northwest will continue to bring a southwesterly flow across the region.

As this trough digs further southward, it will result cooler temperatures and gustier winds for the Desert Southwest.

Gusty and dusty conditions will take over tomorrow where gusts could reach as high as 50 MPH.

Take a look below at our expected gusts for tomorrow evening.

The Imperial County APCD has issued an Air Quality alert tomorrow due to increased particulate matter from blowing dust.

Temperatures are expected to rise above normal next week.

In fact, the hottest temperatures of the year so far may develop by early next week.