PHOENIX, ARIZONA – A powerful dust storm swept through south and central Phoenix on Monday evening, creating dangerous visibility conditions and prompting emergency warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS) and state agencies.
The event began shortly after 5 p.m., when outflow winds from western Pinal County thunderstorms kicked up dust along State Route 347. Within an hour, that dust had formed what meteorologists described as a “wall of dust”, rolling into metro Phoenix just after 6 p.m., according to KTAR News.
“Visibility was sharply reduced across several neighborhoods,” the NWS reported, warning drivers to delay travel if possible.
Scattered Showers, More Storms to Follow
Earlier in the day, light showers passed through the Valley, and more rain is expected throughout the week. Tom Frieder, a forecaster with NWS, said scattered rainfall is likely over the next few days — keeping storm activity high across Arizona during monsoon season.
ADOT Shares Life-Saving Dust Storm Driving Tips
In collaboration with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), state emergency officials urged residents to follow the “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” protocol when caught in blowing dust.
If you encounter a dust storm while driving:
- Do not drive into the storm — visibility can drop to near zero.
- Exit the road if possible, but never stop in travel lanes or on shoulders.
- Once parked:
- Engage the emergency brake.
- Turn off all lights, including hazard flashers.
- Remove your foot from the brake so your lights don’t guide cars into your vehicle.
- Keep your seatbelt fastened and wait for the storm to pass.
Additional information on dust storm driving safety can be found through ADOT’s monsoon resources.
Have you ever driven through a dust storm in the Southwest? Share your story or storm safety tips with readers at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com and help spread awareness.
