Dust Storm — Upper Gila River and Aravaipa Valleys, Arizona

2025-07-18 · Upper Gila River and Aravaipa Valleys, Arizona

Event narrative

Strong thunderstorms with winds observed between 40 to 53 mph was able to produce a dust storm through Safford. A trained spotter reported visibility at 0.25 miles.

Wider weather episode

Strong thunderstorms moved northward through Cochise county into Graham county producing locally heavy rainfall and lofted areas of blowing dust.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1287353. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.