Severe Dust Storms and Monsoon Hazards Impact Phoenix Area
Phoenix, Arizona, experienced its second Category 5 dust storm of the season early Thursday morning, following a historic haboob earlier in the week. These massive dust storms, which can tower thousands of feet high and stretch for miles, are a hallmark of the monsoon season in the region. Monday’s storm was described as one of the worst ever recorded in Phoenix, leaving behind hazy skies and lingering dust. Additionally, microbursts—sudden, unpredictable gusts of wind—have caused significant damage, including at the Palm Shadows Mobile Home Park, where homes were damaged and debris scattered. The Phoenix dust storm scale categorizes these events from Category 1 to Category 5, with the latter representing the most severe conditions. Source time: not specified.