A severe sandstorm, locally known as a “Habub,” swept through the Phoenix, Arizona, region, leaving thousands without power. The city’s airport temporarily suspended all flights due to near-zero visibility conditions.

These weather phenomena, characterized by intense thunderstorms and high winds, can severely impair visibility, making driving hazardous. As the dust cloud approached, motorists rushed to get home amidst the strong winds and rain.

Dust Enters “Every Little Crack”

“I couldn’t see my hand when I stretched it outside. It was that bad,” recounted Bernae Boykin Hitesman, who was traveling near Arizona City, about 95 kilometers southeast of Phoenix. The dust storm completely engulfed her vehicle, forcing her to stop.

boykin Hitesman described tasting the dust and feeling the strong winds buffet her car. The ordeal lasted approximately 15 minutes. From a distance, the dust cloud resembled a massive wall moving slowly across Phoenix.

Richard Filley,a local resident,reported that fine dust infiltrated his home through “every little crack and every gap.” He added, “as far as the storm is concerned, I am glad that it is over.” Though, he acknowledged, “If you look at the photos of Habubs, they are a impressive natural phenomenon. They are somehow gorgeous in their own way.”