Friday, July 8, 2011

"Haboob" in Phoenix, Arizona

A Haboob is a word that explains a very intense sand storm. They have been observed in the Sahara desert (typically Sudan), as well as across the Arabian Peninsula, throughout Kuwait, and in the most arid regions of Iraq.  African haboobs result from the northward summer shift of the inter-tropical front into North Africa. A Haboob was present in Phoenix, Arizona for the first time in awhile. It happened on Tuesday July 5th, around 7 p.m. It delayed many flights and caused problems for people who were driving. The dust storm was reported to be around 5,000 feet when it arrived in Phoenix. Radar reports claimed that it reached 8,000 to 10,000 feet in height prior to arriving in Phoenix. It was reported to be 50 miles wide in some areas. The storm was formed in Tucson as a result of the monsoon season currently happening. Many pictures that were taken can't even describe what it was like to see it in person. A memory that most people who experienced it won't ever forget!

4 comments:

  1. Gotta say, never heard the term before. I imagine seeing it live is quite spectacular

    ReplyDelete
  2. Looks impressive. I would be scarred for life if I saw that coming to me.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Great work on the blog! keep up the good content!

    ReplyDelete