Spring storm brings rain to Phoenix area; snow to northern Arizona
PHOENIX - Portions of the Phoenix area experienced rain and snow was falling in higher elevations of northern Arizona Tuesday, as a spring storm continues to move through the state.
On March 28, officials with the National Weather Service issued a blowing dust advisory has been issued for the Phoenix area, as well as southern Maricopa and northern Pinal counties, with officials saying strong wind gusts caused by the storm could produce blowing dust, and possibly reduce visibility to a mile at times in some areas. The alert expired at 8:00 p.m.
ADOT officials reported high winds and blowing dust on Interstate 10 near the Broadway Curve area.
NWS officials said Monday the storm brought 0.02 inches of rain to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Rain showers wound down for the Phoenix area at around 7:00 p.m. but increased overnight.
In the high country, snow was falling in higher elevations early Tuesday morning, NWS said.
Blowing dust over parts of Phoenix (Courtesy: NWS Phoenix)
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.