Strong Wind — Upper San Pedro River Valley, Arizona

2011-05-09 · Upper San Pedro River Valley, Arizona

Event narrative

Strong surface winds occurred in Sierra Vista. Homeland Security's aerostat, an anti-trafficking balloon, broke free from its tether and crashed into the Canyon de Flores neighborhood in Sierra Vista. Equipment from the aerostat was picked up from 39 different sites throughout the neighborhood. Minor damage was reported to a few vehicles and homes, as well as a damage to power lines south of Fort Huachuca. The aerostat, based at the fort since 1986, was a total loss and will be replaced.

Wider weather episode

A strong low pressure system moved through the Great Basin region resulting in strong winds across southern Arizona.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 311712. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.