PHOENIX – An epic dust storm, known as a haboob, swept across the Phoenix area in Arizona on Monday, knocking out power to thousands of utility customers and causing travel chaos as damaging winds ripped across the region.
The intense situation began to unfold on Monday as monsoon storms rolled across portions of Arizona, producing heavy rain and thunderstorms.
A massive dust storm, known as a haboob, swept through the Phoenix area on Monday, Aug. 25, 2025.
According to the Gilbert Police Department, the powerful storms knocked down trees and power lines, prompting officials to ask people to avoid travel until crews could clear debris from the roadways.
“If you must travel, please drive with caution as we are working diligently to restore lights and clear roadways,” police said in a post on X.
A dramatic time-lapse video shows a massive dust storm, known as a haboob, sweeping across Tempe, Arizona, on Monday, Aug. 25, 2025.
The dust storm also led to travel problems at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with officials issuing a ground stop for flights arriving and departing for safety.
That ground stop has since been lifted.
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