ENVIRONMENT

Holiday weekend weather: showers, heat, and fire risks expected

PUBLISHED May 20, 2026, 10:26 AM ET

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Casper, Wyoming. The National Weather Service in Riverton issued forecasts this week calling for a short shot of rain and isolated thunderstorms Thursday, possible rain‑and‑snow mix Friday morning, then a warming trend with sunny conditions and highs reaching the low 80s by Memorial Day. Jacksonville, Florida and Phoenix, Arizona received parallel forecasts this week: Jacksonville is expected to see highs near 90 degrees through the holiday weekend with modest afternoon storm chances, while Phoenix will warm into the upper 90s to around 100 degrees Sunday and Monday, with gusty winds prompting critical fire‑weather and dry lightning concerns into next week.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

This week: National Weather Service releases holiday weekend forecasts for multiple regions.
Thursday: Short shot of rain and isolated thunderstorms expected in central Wyoming.
Friday morning: Possible rain-snow mix in parts of central Wyoming before clearing.
Weekend: Warming trend in Casper with sunny days and highs into 70s–80s; Jacksonville stays in the 90s.
Sunday–Monday: Phoenix heats to upper 90s–100°F with gusty winds and heightened fire-weather risk.

News Intelligence

If you're in Casper, pack for a weather rollercoaster. In Jacksonville or Phoenix, prepare for heat. High temps increase dehydration risks, so drink plenty of water. Phoenix folks, be extra cautious with fire risks around.

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Who Benefited

Residents and businesses planning outdoor Memorial Day events in Casper and Phoenix will experience mostly sunny, warm conditions, which supports outdoor activities and tourism over the holiday weekend.

Who Impacted

Communities in Arizona face increased fire-weather risk from gusty winds, dry lightning, and high temperatures, while some central Wyoming areas could see travel impacts from Thursday showers and Friday morning rain-snow mixes.

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