More monsoon storms possible through this weekend in Phoenix area: Live radar, updates

A recap of Thursday morning's strong monsoon storm

FOX 10's Anita Roman has the latest after a fast-moving monsoon storm swept through the Valley, causing flooding on Phoenix-area freeways.

PHOENIX - Another round of monsoon storms has arrived to the Phoenix area, causing flooded freeways and power outages across the Valley.

Heavy rain, wind and lightning slammed areas west of Tempe early Thursday morning and several Flash Flood advisories were issued.

Drivers saw major flooding on Interstate 17, causing major backups for about an hour in the area. The water has since been cleared out.

"Elevated rain chances tonight into tomorrow morning, more isolated thunderstorms Thursday and Friday," the National Weather Service Phoenix tweeted on Aug. 3. "This weekend's increase in widespread rainfall will contain storms with gusty winds, blowing dust, heavy rainfall, and localized flooding possible."

Palm tree struck by lightning in Scottsdale

Taylor Daml shared this video of a palm tree on fire after it was struck by lightning during monsoon storms early Thursday morning.

Weather causing delays at Sky Harbor

Officials on Thursday morning urged passengers to check their flight status ahead of arriving at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport due to reported delays and cancellations caused by the storm.

Southwest Airlines workers said lightning struck a generator, causing a server to go down and delay dozens of the carrier’s flights for several hours.

Power outages

APS says that around 4,000 to 5,000 people were without power Thursday due to the storm. Check if your area has been impacted: https://outagemap.aps.com/outageviewer/

An additional estimated 5,000 SRP customers also lost power, but electricity has since been restored to many of those homes. You can check their outage map here: https://myaccount.srpnet.com/power/myaccount/outages

The Associated Press (AP) contributed to this report.

You can check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.

Live radar

Latest forecast

Noon Weather Forecast - 8/5/22

Mostly sunny skies in the Valley with a high in the low-100s.

Updates

A lightning show at Wild Horse Pass

Jason Karniol took an electrifying video of a lightning show near Wild Horse Pass early Thursday morning.

Heavy morning rains cause flooding on Phoenix-area freeways

It'll be a tough morning commute for drivers across the Valley due to a fast-moving monsoon storm. FOX 10's Anita Roman has the latest.

A monsoon storm moves into the Gilbert area on Aug. 3, 2022. (Rick Davis)

Road Conditions

Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)
az511.com

Rain/flood safety tips

The American Red Cross' tips for heavy rain situations and flood safety:

Turn around don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.
If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.
If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

Preparing for a severe thunderstorm

The American Red Cross' tips for preparing for a severe thunderstorm:

Put together an emergency kit.
Know your community’s evacuation plan.
Create a household disaster plan and practice it.
Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Discuss thunderstorm safety with members of your household. Be aware that a thunderstorm could produce flooding.
Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or glass doors, which could be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.

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.