🕒 Last updated on September 5, 2025
Heavy rainfall and sudden flooding hit parts of the Valley
Residents across metro Phoenix faced a powerful weather event on Wednesday evening as dust storms and thunderstorms swept through the south and east parts of the Valley. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued several warnings as strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning made driving and outdoor activities dangerous.
By late evening, several cities had already reported significant rainfall. Tempe received nearly an inch of rain around 10 p.m., soaking roads and neighborhoods. Western Mesa experienced a similar amount of rainfall, while Chandler recorded 0.59 inches. The downpour caused water to collect quickly in some low-lying areas, leading to flash flooding concerns.
The storms arrived with fast-moving clouds, lightning, and dark skies that turned day into night for a short while. Streets across parts of Tempe and Mesa were slick and filled with running water, and drains struggled to keep up with the sudden flow. In some neighborhoods, yards and driveways collected large puddles as the storm rolled through.
With the rainfall came other hazards. Strong winds accompanied the storm, blowing dust across highways and making it difficult for drivers to see clearly. Wind gusts were reported as high as 60 miles per hour in some areas, a force strong enough to knock down branches, toss around loose items, and make driving especially challenging.
The NWS also warned about hail during the storm. Some parts of the Valley saw pea-sized hail, which rattled on rooftops and vehicles. The hail was scattered and not widespread, but it added another layer of risk to the already dangerous evening weather.
Multiple warnings issued for drivers and residents
As the storm picked up strength, the National Weather Service quickly issued a series of warnings to alert residents across the Phoenix metro. A dust storm warning went into effect until 9 p.m. for major roadways, including Interstate 10, Interstate 17, and U.S. Route 60 near Phoenix and Mesa. Drivers on these roads were advised to slow down, keep headlights on, and, if necessary, pull over safely to wait out the low visibility conditions.
At the same time, a thunderstorm warning was issued for Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert. This warning, in place until 9:15 p.m., alerted residents about the risks of strong winds, lightning, and heavy downpours. The combination of dust and heavy rainfall made driving particularly risky during this window.
A flash flood warning was also declared for Tempe and Guadalupe. This warning lasted until 10:45 p.m., as heavy rain created dangerous flooding in some areas. Flash floods can happen suddenly, especially in desert regions like Arizona, where the ground cannot absorb water quickly. Roads that seemed safe one moment can become covered with rushing water minutes later.
NWS officials reminded drivers never to attempt driving through flooded roadways, even if the water looks shallow. Many accidents and rescues happen each year because cars get stuck or swept away by unexpected floodwaters. During Wednesday’s storms, motorists were strongly advised to avoid flooded areas and take alternate routes.
Strong winds and hail add to storm dangers
While rain and flooding created significant risks, the strong winds that swept across the Valley were just as concerning. Gusts up to 60 miles per hour were reported in parts of the region. Such powerful winds can reduce visibility on highways, especially when mixed with desert dust and sand.
The dust storm that moved across Phoenix and Mesa caused visibility to drop sharply on several roadways. In some places, drivers could only see a short distance ahead. These conditions made travel especially hazardous on busy highways such as I-10 and U.S. 60 during the evening commute hours.
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Along with the winds, the NWS reported small hail in scattered parts of the Valley. Pea-sized hail can damage plants, dent vehicles, and make roads slick. Although the hail was not widespread, it added to the severity of the evening storm system.
As the night continued, the storm left behind soaked streets, scattered debris from strong winds, and rising waters in certain neighborhoods. For many residents, the quick change from a hot desert evening to a stormy, rain-soaked night highlighted just how quickly Arizona’s weather can shift.
The National Weather Service said more storms were possible later in the week, with the potential for additional rainfall across the Valley. With the dust, hail, heavy rain, and high winds on Wednesday night, residents across south and east metro Phoenix experienced one of the season’s more intense storm systems.