Strong Wind — Greater Phoenix Area, Arizona

2012-05-26 · Greater Phoenix Area, Arizona

Event narrative

A Pacific low pressure system and associated cold front moved to the northeast and across the central Arizona deserts during the day on May 26th. The frontal passage produced occasional strong and gusty winds, with peak gusts estimated to be in excess of 35 mph. According to the Arizona Republic, at 1045 in the morning, a wind gust estimated to be around 40 mph caused a 500 pound fence to topple over. The fence, which moved back and forth on a wheel, apparently gave way in a strong wind gust and fell on a 2 year boy, causing his death. The fence struck the young boy in the head.

Wider weather episode

A cold and vigorous Pacific low pressure system moved to the northeast and across Arizona on Saturday, May 26th. The associated frontal passage caused high temperatures to fall into the lower 80s over the deserts and also led to occasional strong and gusty winds during the late morning and afternoon hours. One of the stronger wind gusts caused a large fence to topple in Laveen, leading to the death of a 2 year old boy.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 374032. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.