A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Flagstaff on Wednesday, Aug. 5. This warning applies to Coconino and Yavapai counties.
Use caution: Officials warn of quarter-inch hail.
The National Weather Service warns: "Seek shelter inside a well-built structure and stay away from windows. This storm is capable of producing large hail."
See weather radar for northern Arizona
What are weather service meteorologists saying?
At 4:40 p.m., the weather service issued a statement:
The National Weather Service in Flagstaff has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for, Coconino County in north central Arizona, Yavapai County in west central Arizona, Until 5 p.m. MST. At 4:34 p.m. MST, a severe thunderstorm was located over Munds Mountain Wilderness, or 7 miles southeast of Sedona, moving south at 5 mph.
HAZARD:
Quarter size hail.
SOURCE: Radar indicated.
IMPACT: Damage to vehicles is expected. Locations impacted include: Sedona, Village of Oak Creek, Sedona Airport, Munds Mountain Wilderness, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock and Apache Maid Mountain. This includes the following highways, Interstate 17 between mile markers 299 and 309. State Route 179 between mile markers 299 and 312. This includes the following swimming holes, Buddha Beach "Red Rock Crossing" and Crescent Moon Ranch.
What is a severe thunderstorm warning?
Thunderstorms are a staple in Arizona, especially during the state's monsoon season, which runs from June 15 to Sept. 30. The monsoon is characterized by intense heat, surges of moisture and atmospheric instability, creating clouds and storm chances in the afternoon.
While storms in Arizona are most frequent during the monsoon, they can happen year-round. Storms can be spotty and short-lived, while others can unleash strong winds, flashes of lightning and torrential downpours.
A severe thunderstorm warning means the area is experiencing or is about to experience a storm with winds of 58 mph or higher and/or hail an inch in diameter or larger.
Tips for staying safe during thunderstorms in Arizona
- Go indoors at the first sound of thunder. Lightning strikes can occur miles away from the parent storm.
- Resume outdoor activities 30 minutes after the storm passes.
- Avoid electronics, plumbing and windows.
- Remember to bring pets inside.
- If there is time, secure loose objects outside as these objects often become dangerous flying debris in high winds.
This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for northern Arizona, including Sedona
