Sunday night’s monsoon storm offered a brutal reminder of how quickly Arizona weather can turn dangerous. Severe storms swept across the West Valley last night. The National Weather Service reported widespread wind gusts between 60 and 80 mph along Interstate 10.
Buckeye remained under a severe thunderstorm warning until 10:30 p.m. Sunday. The warning included possible wind gusts reaching 70 mph. High winds, heavy rain, lightning and dust caused widespread damage and power failures across the Valley.
Damage was reported in Buckeye, Avondale, Goodyear and other West Valley communities. More than 40,000 utility customers lost electricity during the storm’s peak. Trees fell, carports collapsed and debris scattered across several communities.
Monday night could bring another round of severe weather. The National Weather Service said the hazards could resemble Sunday night’s storms. Threats include damaging winds, dense dust, heavy rain and frequent lightning. Some storms could produce wind gusts approaching 80 mph.
Buckeye has a 40% chance of storms between 8 p.m. Monday and 3 a.m. Tuesday. The overnight low will fall to about 85 degrees. Before the storms arrive, temperatures could reach 108 degrees, with a heat index near 112.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads and never attempt to cross running water. Motorists should also leave the roadway if blowing dust reduces visibility. Residents should secure outdoor furniture, trash cans and other items that strong winds could carry.
Storm chances continue through Thursday
Tuesday will be mostly sunny, with a high near 105 degrees. A 30% storm chance returns early Wednesday. Wednesday should reach 102 degrees, with storm chances increasing to 50% Wednesday night.
Thursday will bring a high near 101 degrees and a 20% chance of storms that night. Drier weather should return Friday, with a high near 103 degrees. Temperatures will climb again this weekend, reaching 105 Saturday and 108 Sunday.
