Storm chances still lingering through Desert Southwest

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - A Flood Watch remains in effect across the Desert Southwest through Friday evening, and it extends into Saturday for much of south-central Arizona.

Forecasters say several rounds of rain and thunderstorms will continue to move through the region, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall and localized flooding.

Some areas especially over higher terrain north and northeast of Phoenix could see over two inches of rain, leading to excessive runoff into washes and low-lying areas.

So far, rainfall totals have already reached up to an inch in parts of Maricopa County, and radar continues to show widespread showers stretching from western Pima County through Phoenix.

Additional moisture will keep the atmosphere primed for more rain today and into Saturday, with totals averaging between a quarter to three-quarters of an inch across the southwest deserts though localized amounts could exceed one inch.

While rainfall rates aren't expected to be extreme, training storms (multiple rounds of rain over the same area) could lead to flooding concerns through Saturday night.

As the main band of moisture shifts east Saturday, heavier rain will target Pinal and Gila Counties, with a few isolated thunderstorms possible during the afternoon.

Looking ahead to Sunday and early next week, more showers and storms are expected, especially across south-central and eastern Arizona as a Pacific storm system approaches from the west.

Temperatures will also take a dip, with highs in the low to mid-80s by Sunday and staying below normal through next week.

Stay weather-aware, and remember never drive through flooded roadways.