A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Tucson at 7:18 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23. This warning applies to Pinal County.
Meteorologists warn of winds as strong as 60 mph.
The National Weather Service warns: "Seek shelter inside a well-built structure and stay away from windows. This storm is capable of producing damaging winds."
See weather radar for Pinal County
What are weather service meteorologists saying?
At 7:18 p.m., the weather service issued a statement:
"The National Weather Service in Tucson has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for South Central Pinal County in southeastern Arizona, until 8 p.m. MST. At 7:18 p.m. MST, a severe thunderstorm was located 7 miles northeast of Picacho Peak State Park, moving northwest at 10 mph.
HAZARD: 60 mph wind gusts and small hail.
SOURCE: Radar indicated.
IMPACT: Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Locations impacted include: Eloy, Picacho, Picacho Peak State Park, Red Rock and Cactus Forest. This includes the following highways: Route 79 between mile markers 104 and 128. Route 87 between mile markers 116 and 124. Interstate 10 between mile markers 205 and 230."
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.
See the latest weather alerts and forecasts here.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Pinal County
