Dust Storm Alert Hits Phoenix and Surrounding Counties

The National Weather Service issued a haboob warning at 6:18 p.m. for Monday evening, lasting until about 7:15 p.m. The alert covers major routes:

• Interstate 10
• U.S. Highway 60
• Arizona Route 87

What’s a Haboob?

A haboob is a sudden, towering dust cloud that can:

• Cut visibility to < ¼ mile
• Reach wind speeds of > 50 mph
• Travel northwest at ~25 mph

The wall stretched from Apache Junction to Phoenix’s Mesa Gateway Airport and beyond.

Areas Affected

Why It Happens

• Arabic origin: “big, blasting winds”
• Common during Arizona’s monsoon season (June‑September)
• Thunderstorms drop cold air onto hot desert floor, lifting loose dust

Driving Safety Tips

• Pull off the road as soon as possible; do not stop in a travel or emergency lane.
• Find a safe spot off the roadway.
• Turn all vehicle lights off to avoid confusing other drivers.
• Keep your seat belt fastened and stay inside the car until the storm clears.
• High‑profile vehicles should reduce speed even more.

More Resources

For additional safety tips on driving during dust storms or rainy weather, visit the Arizona Department of Transportation’s online resources.