High Wind — Gila River Valley, Arizona

2023-08-20 · Gila River Valley, Arizona

Event narrative

Multiple instances of wind damage were reported along several different roads near the Tacna area, including Avenue 16, Avenue 31, Avenue 36, and Avenue 42. Along Avenues 31 and 36, railroad crossing signals were toppled or damaged. Power lines were reported down along Avenues 16 and 42. Awnings were also destroyed on RVs in the Welton area. Timing estimated based on nearby observations. No injuries were reported.

Wider weather episode

While the heaviest rainfall and flash flooding remained to the west across southern California, Tropical Storm Hilary did bring very strong winds to parts of southwest Arizona, which also led to areas of dense blowing dust. Hilary brought strong low level winds upwards of 50-60 knots at 850 mb and 925 mb, which mixed to the surface at times. As a result, very strong winds at the surface led to instances of damage along with low visibility due to blowing dust across Yuma County. No injuries were reported.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1132517. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.