Windy Conditions Sweep Across Arizona as Pollen Counts Rise

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A dry cold front is moving through Arizona, bringing strong winds statewide. Wind Advisories are in effect in parts of northern Arizona, with gusts up to 45 mph. The Phoenix metro area will see sustained winds of 20-25 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. The windy conditions are also leading to high pollen counts across the desert regions.

Why it matters

Strong winds can create hazardous driving conditions, increase the risk of power outages, and exacerbate allergy symptoms for residents. The high pollen levels may be especially problematic for those with respiratory issues.

The details

The cold front is not producing much rainfall, but it is kicking up the winds across the state. In northern Arizona, Wind Advisories are posted with gusts up to 45 mph expected. In the Phoenix metro area, wind gusts of 30 mph are possible, along with sustained winds of 20-25 mph. This could lead to blowing dust and very high pollen counts, especially in the desert regions.

• The Wind Advisories are in effect for the rest of today (March 5, 2026).
• Temperatures in the Phoenix area are expected to be about 5 degrees cooler on Friday, March 6, with highs in the mid-70s.

What’s next

A developing cut-off low off the coast of southern California could bring some light showers to parts of Arizona, especially southeastern Arizona, on Monday afternoon and Monday night.