PHOENIX – Trees were uprooted, homes were damaged, and utility poles fell during a series of severe storms that swept through central Arizona recently. The storms, which included a possible tornado, caused significant disruption in the community as residents braced for the impacts overnight into Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service, storms capable of producing hail and strong winds were active across central Arizona early Thursday. Flood watches were also issued, signaling the potential for dangerous weather conditions, including tornadoes.
On Wednesday night, the northern and central regions of the state experienced hailstorms, with hailstones the size of golf balls causing damage to roofs, breaking windows, and denting cars. The weather service had to issue multiple warnings as the severe thunderstorms rolled through.
A tornado warning was in effect as a storm moved over Heber-Overgaard, a community located about 140 miles northeast of Phoenix. Residents shared images and videos online showing uprooted trees and damaged buildings, with reports of significant property damage and a few minor injuries, according to the county sheriff’s office.
State Representative Walt Blackman, who represents parts of the affected area, urged for a state of emergency declaration. He highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “We have families without power, significant property damage, and at least one reported injury.”
Remarkably, the storm struck as members of the Overgaard Baptist Church were concluding a prayer meeting. The church reported damage, including lost trees, signs, fences, and some broken windows. Thankfully, everyone at the church was safe, with members humorously noting, “We had a great prayer meeting in the women’s restroom.”
Meteorologist Ryan Bernhart from the weather service explained that warm, moist air moving north from the California coast contributed to the storms. He noted that changing wind patterns can create conditions favorable for tornadoes, emphasizing that such severe weather is quite unusual for this time of year in Arizona.
Strong winds also caused trees to fall in other areas, including Flagstaff and Mesa, with some falling onto homes and carports. In the Coconino National Forest, several dozen ponderosa pines over 30 feet tall were reported downed. Bernhart remarked, “These are not small trees that are down. These are pretty strong trees that had been knocked down.”
This unusual weather event serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of severe storms.
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Hill reported from Las Vegas. Associated Press writer Kathy McCormack in Concord, New Hampshire, contributed to this report.
