Phoenix, Arizona — A severe dust storm swept through the Phoenix metropolitan area on July 13, 2026, leaving thousands without power and dumping unexpected rainfall totals across the Valley. The event, part of an active monsoon week, triggered widespread chaos.
Wind speeds peaked at 60 mph, reducing visibility to near zero. The storm knocked down power lines, leaving thousands of SRP customers without power after the dust storm moved through the area, according to azfamily.com. Neighborhoods from Chandler to Surprise reported outages lasting up to 12 hours.
Rain followed immediately. RAINFALL TOTALS for July 13 varied sharply. ABC15 data shows 1.2 inches in Chandler, 0.8 inches in Gilbert, and 1.5 inches in Glendale. Mesa recorded 0.9 inches, while Scottsdale, Surprise, and Tempe saw totals between 0.5 and 1.1 inches. Some areas received more rain in 30 minutes than in the previous month.
| City | Rainfall (inches) | Power Outage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Chandler | 1.2 | 8 hours |
| Gilbert | 0.8 | 10 hours |
| Glendale | 1.5 | 6 hours |
| Mesa | 0.9 | 12 hours |
| Scottsdale | 0.5 | 4 hours |
| Surprise | 0.7 | 9 hours |
| Tempe | 1.1 | 7 hours |
SRP crews worked through the night. Restoration efforts faced challenges from flooded roads and downed lines. The utility warned residents to avoid standing water and report dangling wires immediately.
The chance for rain throughout the week for AZ remains high. The FOX10 Phoenix forecast predicts storm chances each day through July 18. Temperatures will drop 5-10 degrees below average, offering relief. However, the risk of additional dust storms and flash flooding persists.
Residents should prepare. Emergency kits with water, flashlights, and batteries are essential. Sign up for SRP outage alerts. Secure outdoor furniture before storms. Have a communication plan for family members.
This week’s events underscore Phoenix’s weather resilience. The city has faced similar chaos before. For ongoing updates, follow FOX10, azfamily, and ABC15.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How much rain did Phoenix get during the dust storm on July 13, 2026?
- A: Rainfall totals varied sharply: Chandler got 1.2 inches, Glendale 1.5 inches, Gilbert 0.8 inches, Mesa 0.9 inches, Scottsdale 0.5 inches, Surprise 0.7 inches, and Tempe 1.1 inches.
- Q: How long did power outages last after the Phoenix dust storm?
- A: Power outages lasted up to 12 hours in areas like Gilbert and Mesa, with Chandler experiencing 8 hours, Glendale 6 hours, Scottsdale 4 hours, Surprise 9 hours, and Tempe 7 hours.
- Q: What caused the power outages in Phoenix after the dust storm?
- A: Wind speeds peaked at 60 mph, knocking down power lines across the Valley, leaving thousands of SRP customers without power.
Extended Reading
For further details on the power outages, see azfamily.com’s report on SRP customer disruptions. ABC15 offers the full rainfall totals breakdown. FOX10 provides the week’s forecast and safety tips.
