Strong Wind — Greater Phoenix Area, Arizona

2015-05-08 · Greater Phoenix Area, Arizona

Event narrative

Gusty winds occurred over the greater Phoenix area during the evening hours, associated with the passage of a cold and vigorous Pacific low pressure system. The westerly gusts were strong enough to cause minor tree damage. According to a public report, at 2110MST wind gusts measured at 42 mph broke off several tree branches, up to 2 inches in diameter. The damage occurred about 2 miles northwest of the town of Goodyear. The wind gusts were not thunderstorm related.

Wider weather episode

Gusty winds associated with the passage of a vigorous and cold Pacific low pressure system resulted in minor tree damage in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area during the evening hours on May 8th. The public reported that gusty winds, estimated to be in excess of 40 mph, damaged small to moderate sized tree branches near the town of Goodyear. The winds were not associated with a cold frontal passage.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 566151. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.