Dust Storm — Central Deserts, Arizona

2013-10-09 · Central Deserts, Arizona

Event narrative

A deep and strong upper level low pressure system developed over the desert southwest on October 9th and it led to the development of strong and gusty west winds over the central deserts during the afternoon and evening hours. Gusty winds estimated to be in excess of 40 mph generated dense blowing dust near the town of Maricopa, and dust storm conditions were reported by local law enforcement. At 1315 MST, they reported near zero visibility in dust storm conditions 5 miles north of Maricopa on State Route 347. An auto accident occurred as a result of the low visibility however no injuries or fatalities were reported. Additionally, at 1430 MST an NWS employee 8 miles north of Maricopa reported visibility down to near zero miles along State Route 347 from Riggs Road to the Gila River.

Wider weather episode

A large and strong upper level low pressure system developed across the desert southwest on October 9th and it led to strong and gusty winds across the central Arizona deserts during the afternoon and evening hours. The gusty winds, estimated to be in excess of 40 mph, led to dust storm conditions near the town of Maricopa during the early afternoon hours. Visibilities in dense blowing dust along State Route 347 led to an auto accident; fortunately no fatalities were reported.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 479569. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.