Dust Storm — Coachella Valley, California

2023-07-31 · Coachella Valley, California

Event narrative

Gusty outflow winds from a decaying thunderstorm produced strong winds and greatly reduced visibility across the Coachella Valley early in the morning on July 31. ASOS station KTRM Thermal Airport reported a peak wind gust of 51 mph, with gusts over 40 mph reported from 2:40 AM - 3:40 AM, and 1/2 mile visibility in blowing dust for 10 minutes; reduced visibility of 1 mile was reported for an hour at KTRM. Palm Springs ASOS reported 1.5 mi visibility in blowing dust from thunderstorm outflow between 330 and 415 am. Visibility briefly dropped to 1.25 mi at 405 am. Widespread wind gusts in excess of 45 mph were reported across the Coachella Valley. 1-inch tree limbs were broken and shingles were blown off near Anza.

Wider weather episode

Outflow from decaying thunderstorms produced gusty winds across the Coachella Valley and the San Diego County deserts early in the morning on July 31. Widespread wind gusts over 40 mph occurred for an hour across the region, and reduced visibility as low as 1/4 mile was noted at the Thermal Airport and the Palm Springs Airport.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1124512. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.