The National Weather Service has issued a sandstorm warning for Maricopa County starting at 4:06 p.m. on February 28th. The alert will end on February 28 at 4:30 p.m.
For the latest monitoring and alerts, see: Weather warning page.
“Haboob” typically occurs in Arizona during the monsoon. From June to September, strong winds stir up dust and can cause major dust storms across the state.
“Haboob” means “big wind” in Arabic, said Andrew Diemer, a meteorologist and former linguist with the National Weather Service in Phoenix.
term: When did we start using haboob to describe sandstorms in Arizona?
If I'm driving, what should I do in case of a sandstorm?
The Arizona Department of Transportation offers helpful tips for drivers who may be caught in a sandstorm while driving. The 'Pull Aside, Stay Alive' campaign aims to save motorists from dangerous situations by providing tips on how to survive during dusty events.
- If you encounter a sandstorm, immediately check the traffic surrounding your vehicle (in front, behind, and to the sides) and begin slowing down.
- Don't wait until visibility becomes poor and it becomes difficult to safely leave the roadway. Please do it as soon as possible. Get off the highway completely if possible.
- Do not stop in the travel lane or emergency lane. Find a safe place to completely remove your vehicle from the paved portion of the roadway.
- Turn off all your car lights. You want other vehicles approaching from behind to use the lights as a guide to avoid potentially hitting your parked vehicle.
- Apply the emergency brake and release your foot from the brake. Fasten your seat belt, stay in your car and wait out the storm.
- Drivers of heavy vehicles should be especially aware of changing weather conditions and drive at reduced speeds.
For more information on sandstorm safety, visit PullAsideStayAlive.org. Safety tips for driving during storms can be found at azdot.gov/monsoon.
This article was produced by The Arizona Republic and USA TODAY Network using data published by the National Weather Service. Edited by staff.
