The hazy brown cloud of a dust storm blanketed Phoenix ahead of an incoming storm and the Arizona Republic described it as a 2,500-foot tall dust wall.
The Associated Press reported no injuries or significant property damages. The dust storm hit downtown Phoenix around rush hour with wind speeds of up to 30 miles per hour Thursday evening. The National Weather Service issued a dust advisory that lasted until 7 p.m.
Phoenix is prone to weather extremes. Though its in the desert, Phoenix is in the midst of its monsoon season that runs from June 15 to September 30. On top of dust storms and monsoons, the high on Thursday in Phoenix was 101 degrees. Temperatures are expected to stay in the lower 100s with a high of 102 on Friday, 103 on Saturday, and 103 on Sunday. The rains were also expected cause flash flooding.
SantanValley.com also reported on the dust storm, relaying some tips from the Arizona Department of Transportation for what to do if caught in a dust storm while driving.
“Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway — do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can. If you encounter a dust storm, check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down,” the tips said. “Do not stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane. Look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway. Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and away from where other vehicles may travel and turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers.”