Massive Dust Storm Causes Power Outages, Flight Disruptions Across Arizona

A massive haboob, or dust storm, swept through Phoenix and surrounding areas in Arizona, creating a towering wall of dust that blinded drivers, knocked out power for over 15,000 people, and grounded flights at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The storm forced residents like Bernae Boykin Hitesman to pull over as visibility dropped to nearly zero, with strong winds shaking vehicles and dust infiltrating homes. The storm caused damage to airport infrastructure, including leaks in terminal roofs, and delayed flights as cleanup crews worked to manage water accumulation from heavy rain and wind following the dust storm. Residents described the storm as both terrifying and awe-inspiring, with some noting how the dust penetrated homes and toppled bird feeders. The haboob was driven by thunderstorm winds typical in flat, arid regions and is more common in the Southwest during monsoon seasons, although Phoenix has experienced drier conditions than usual this season. Despite the chaos, some locals appreciated the natural phenomenon's striking visual impact.