The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather warning for unusually low overnight temperatures for Maricopa and the surrounding desert region.
“Below normal temperatures will continue through Tuesday,” the NWS stated. “This means low temperatures in the 30s at most lower desert locations east of the lower Colorado River Valley. The colder deserts will reach freezing temperatures. Some spots, mainly in Pinal County, will even dip into the mid to upper 20s.”
Monday is expected to be a cool, sunny day with calm winds near 5 mph. The temperature high for the day will reach 60 degrees, but overnight temperatures are expected to drop below freezing to 30 degrees. Residents should take precautionary measures with plants, gardens, sitting water and exposed water pipes.
The overnight freeze is expected to give way to sunny skies with a high near 64 degrees on Tuesday. The wind is once again expected to stay mild near 5 mph, and the overnight low is expected to drop to 35 degrees.
“Wednesday morning will be quite chilly but not as cold,” the NWS statement reads. “A warming trend will lead to more mild conditions for the rest of the week. However, protective measures may be necessary for sensitive landscaping and garden plants.”
Wednesday is expected to see the return of 70 degree weather. The forecast calls for mostly sunny skies and a high of 70 degrees. The wind is expected to stay a non-factor with gusts reaching 5 mph, and the overnight low is expected to drop to 38 degrees.
Clouds may move into the area Wednesday night, but no moisture is expected.
The temperature is expected to continue its climb through Thursday as well. The forecast calls for sunny skies with a high of 73 degrees. The wind is expected to increase to 10 mph throughout the day, and the overnight low should drop near 42 degrees.
Friday is expected to usher in a sunny weekend with temperatures ranging from the mid 70s to the high 60s. More information will be available as the work week comes to a close.
