Haboob: Navigating Arizona Dust Storm Phenomena

A massive wall of dust, known as a haboob, sweeps across Arizona’s desert landscape, posing hazards to transportation and health.Photo byImage: Tysonomo Multimedia

PHOENIX — A significant wall of dust was moving northwest at 25 mph, approximately 40 miles from downtown Phoenix, yesterday around 7 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Visibility was reduced to less than a quarter mile with strong winds exceeding 40 mph, affecting Interstate 10, Interstate 17, and State Route 51, according to the National Weather Service.

For those not from the Southwest, it may be surprising to learn that large dust storms are not unusual in the dry deserts of Arizona.

While dust storms and haboobs (pronounced "huh-boobs") involve swirling dust and debris, they differ significantly in formation, size, duration, and impact.

Haboobs: Thunderstorm-Driven Dust Storms

Arizona's monsoon season, which runs from June through September, brings higher humidity and a range of inclement weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rain, lightning, hail, high winds, flash flooding, dust storms, and extreme heat.

Haboobs, characterized by strong winds carrying a wall of dust and debris, typically occur during the summer and pose significant hazards to transportation, health, and infrastructure.

While haboob and dust storm are frequently used interchangeably, not every dust storm meets the criteria of a haboob. The distinguishing feature of a haboob is typically the visible wall or cloud of dust that accompanies the event.

What to Do in a Dust Storm

In the event of a sudden dust storm, it is important to take immediate action to ensure safety:

1. Pull Over: If you are driving, pull off the road as far as possible and turn off all lights, including your headlights. Engage your parking brake and wait until the dust storm passes.

2. Stay Inside: If you are at home or in a building, stay inside and close all windows and doors. Turn off ventilation systems that draw in outside air.

3. Cover Your Nose and Mouth: Use a mask or cloth to cover your nose and mouth to prevent inhaling dust.

4. Monitor Weather Alerts: Keep a battery-operated radio or smartphone with you to receive updates and alerts from local weather services.

References:

1. Dust Storms and Haboobs | National Weather Service.

2. Dust Devils in Northern Arizona | NWS.