The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Maricopa County in south central Arizona until 9 p.m. MST. At 8:34 p.m. MST, a severe thunderstorm was located over Painted Rock Dam, or 18 miles north of Gila Bend, moving northeast at 10 mph.
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Maricopa County. It was located near Wenden, or 29 miles south of Alamo Lake, moving northeast at 15 mph.
The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Pinal County in southeastern Arizona, until 12:45 a.m. MST. At 8:52 p.m. MST, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 1.5 inches of rain have fallen. Additional
rainfall amounts up to 1 inch are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.
See weather radar for Maricopa County
What are weather service meteorologists saying?
At 8:28 p.m. MST, a severe thunderstorm was located near Wenden, or 29 miles south of Alamo Lake, moving northeast at 15 mph.
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 for Maricopa County
