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Monsoon Watch: Blowing dust in far East Valley as storms develop in parts of Arizona

By , and FOX 10 Staff
Updated  July 17, 2023 9:50pm MST
Monsoons
FOX 10 Phoenix

Phoenix sees first big 2023 monsoon storm

The monsoon season began in June, but for some time, people in the Valley did not experience the stormy weather conditions that some believe is synonymous with summer. That 'nonsoon' streak, however, came to an end on July 17. FOX 10's Marissa Sarbak reports.

PHOENIX - Since the monsoon season began in mid-June, the Phoenix area saw little storm activities, but that came to an end of July 17.

During the afternoon hours, a storm brought blowing dust to parts of the far East Valley, marking the end of the "nonsoon" that people in the Phoenix area have experienced so far this summer.

"Honestly, I find it kind of beautiful. It’s, like, one of my favorite seasons, especially since we don’t get rain much any other time and season," said Victoria Sanchez.

The dust storm made its way through the Valley from east to west, bring reduced visibility to many parts of the Phoenix area.

Earlier in the day, the National Weather Service issued a Blowing Dust Advisory, in conjunction with an existing Excessive Heat Warning. The advisory covered various parts of the state, including a portion of Pinal County and a portion of Santa Cruz County in Southern Arizona, including Nogales.

"Visibility between one quarter mile and one mile in blowing dust expected," read a portion of NWS' warning.

"Even though the dust is a little nasty, and gets in your eyes a bit, other than that I think it’s pretty nice, especially all the clouds and everything," said Sanchez.

Tucson also experienced monsoon weather

Monsoon storm develops in Tucson

In a video captured by University of Arizona cameras, a storm can be seen developing over the Tucson area during the afternoon hours of July 17. While the monsoon season began in mid-June, the state has yet to see the stormy weather that is typical during an average monsoon season.

In the hours prior to the storm moving into parts of the Valley, other parts of the state, such as the Tucson area, saw stormy weather as well, including rain and blowing dust.

In the Tucson area, officials with Tucson Electric Power reported that thousands of their customers were without power at one point. Tucson television station KOLD-TV also reported downed trees and powerlines in parts of the city.

A video taken by officials with the University of Arizona showed the storm's development in the Tucson area.

Arizonans still sweltering in extreme heat

Senior centers double as cooling centers

As Arizonans continue to deal with the recent streak of extreme heat, cooling centers have been set up to give people in need of a cool place during the day. In the Phoenix area, various senior centers are welcoming people of all ages during the current heat wave. FOX 10's Lindsey Ragas reports.

This round of monsoon storm is developing as Valley residents endure another day of extreme heat.

Amid the heat wave, cooling centers remain available to anyone who need to escape the heat.

"The [City of Phoenix] contributes more than 60 facilities out of the 200 heat relief network of cooling centers, hydration stations and centers," said City of Phoenix Director of Heat Response and Mitigation David Hondula.

"The Senior Center, to me, is my second home," said 86-year-old Mary Alvarez. "I think it's very good for everybody because where I live, it doesn't work too good. AC doesn't work too good, so this is a place I want to be. especially because it is so hot."

"I come over here to be in a cool environment, where I can sit here and do exercising and relax and be cool," said 66-year-old Charlotte Austin.

For people like 76-year-old Virginia Saiz, cooling centers offer something that may not be available at home.

"We have a swamp cooler. We don't have AC," said Saiz.

2023 Heat Relief Network for Maricopa County

https://hrn.azmag.gov/#/map

This story is developing. Please check back for further updates.

(Related Video) Viewer footage from July 17 monsoon across Arizona

We've received lots of footage from the monsoon that swept through much of Arizona on Monday, July 17. A massive dust storm rolled into the Valley, first hitting the East Valley. Up north, hail was falling on the yards of residents.

Satellite and radar image


 

Rain totals image


 

Be prepared and stay safe during the monsoon

"Most Valley residents know how quickly and furiously storms can move in and out, bringing strong winds, dust, rain, and flash flooding. These storms can cause interruptions in services, such as water, power, and gas," stated Captain Ashley Losch of the Glendale Fire Department.

GFD reminds residents of ways they can be prepared and stay safe:

  • Have flashlights with extra batteries on hand.
  • Have food that can be prepared without the need for cooking or refrigeration.
  • Have at least one gallon of clean water for each person in the household.
  • Have backup power for anyone requiring power for a medical device.
  • Have backup power for cell phones that do not require charging.
  • Have a first aid kit ready and accessible.
  • Never drive into areas with flowing water; it takes less than 10 inches to wash a car away.
  • Avoid flooded areas, such as washes.
  • If waters are rising, seek higher ground.
  • Do not approach downed power lines, the ground can be energized for up to 200 feet.
  • Keep pets indoors during storms.