Southwest Heat Faces a Sudden Shift as Rachel Moves In
Hurricane Rachel could bring a major weather shift to the Southwest as it turns toward Mexico and sends moisture northeastward into Arizona and Utah early next week. The rain could ease drought conditions and potentially add water to the Colorado River basin, but weeks of previous downpours have left some areas vulnerable to renewed flooding. Heavy rain could trigger flash flooding, mudslides and dangerous flows of water, mud and rocks in vulnerable terrain. Rachel is expected to weaken before its moisture reaches the region, limiting its wind and storm surge impacts.
