The National Weather Service (NWS) in Flagstaff, Arizona, issued a Tornado Warning for Coconino County in north central Arizona on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. This warning was active from 9:09 AM MST until 9:45 AM MST. At 9:09 AM MST, radar indicated rotation in a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado. The storm was located approximately 5 miles northwest of Forest Highlands, or 9 miles southwest of Flagstaff, and was moving north at 45 mph. The primary hazards included a tornado and quarter-sized hail.

The NWS warned of potential impacts, including flying debris that could be dangerous to those without shelter. Mobile homes were at risk of being damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, vehicles, and trees was also considered likely. Specific locations impacted by this warning included East Flagstaff, Downtown Flagstaff, Fort Valley, Forest Highlands, Bellemont, Camp Navajo, Northern Arizona University, Sunnyside, Railroad Springs, and Cheshire.

This warning occurred during a period of active weather for northern Arizona. The NWS Flagstaff anticipated severe thunderstorms and possible tornadoes over two days, with flooding and flash flooding also listed as concerns. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) placed portions of the area under a Slight to Enhanced risk for severe weather for the day. This outlook highlighted large hail and damaging winds as primary threats, and stated that an isolated tornado or two could not be ruled out. An Enhanced Risk, the third of five severe categories, was specifically noted for Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona, and Payson, including a risk for tornadoes and large hail.

Earlier on October 21, a Tornado Warning was issued at 5:22 AM MST for parts of Coconino and Yavapai counties, remaining in effect until 5:45 AM MST. This particular warning for Coconino County was later canceled at 5:59 AM MST. Another tornado warning for Yavapai County was issued by NWS Flagstaff at 8:18 AM MST, expiring at 8:45 AM MST, citing an extraordinary threat to life or property. Overall, there were four tornado warnings in Arizona on Wednesday, October 21, affecting both Coconino and Yavapai counties.