The first dust storm of the season swept through Phoenix on March 1, reducing visibility and making travel conditions hazardous. The storm, captured by Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) cameras near Loop 303 and Thomas Road, added a challenge for drivers navigating the West Valley. Given Arizona’s warm and dry winter, this likely won’t be the last haboob of the season.
At Camelback Ranch, the site of the Giants-Dodgers spring training game, the dust storm made its presence felt. Spectators struggled with blowing dust, and strong winds even knocked some fans over.
“People were kind of getting dust out of their eyes,” said one attendee, while another noted, “The wind was knocking people over in the stands.”
The storm also affected gameplay, with wind altering the flight of balls hit during the game.
A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) map showed the dust storm moving in waves across the state. Drivers faced dangerous conditions as visibility dropped to less than a mile.
ADOT urges drivers to follow the “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” rule during dust storms:
- Pull off the road as soon as possible.
- Turn off all lights to prevent other drivers from mistakenly following your tail lights.
- Stay inside your car and wait until conditions improve.
A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 west of Phoenix claimed the lives of four people on Saturday afternoon due to the low visibility. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred around 1 p.m. near milepost 89 and involved multiple semi-trucks and other vehicles.
Emergency responders from the Arizona Fire & Medical Authority sent more than 20 units to the scene. Two critically injured patients were airlifted to the hospital, while six others were transported by ambulance for medical treatment. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, and a fourth was later confirmed deceased by authorities.
With dust storms expected to continue this season, Arizonans should stay alert and prepared for sudden weather disruptions.
