A powerful monsoon-driven dust storm, known as a haboob, swept across the Phoenix metropolitan area late Monday, 25 August, enveloping neighbourhoods in near-zero visibility and plunging parts of the city into darkness. The National Weather Service measured wind gusts as high as 70 mph and logged 0.29 in of rain as the system advanced from San Tan Valley to downtown Phoenix within an hour. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport imposed a ground stop as the wall of dust reached the runways, delaying about 100 flights and cancelling at least three before operations gradually resumed. Crews also inspected the terminal roof for storm damage and cleared standing water in passenger areas. The storm toppled trees and power lines across Maricopa and Pinal counties, cutting electricity to roughly 60,000 customers at its peak. Utilities reported that most service had been restored by Tuesday morning, though about 5,000 households remained without power while repair work continued. Haboobs are common during the Southwest’s summer monsoon season, forming when thunderstorm downdrafts sweep desert dust into towering clouds. Forecasters expect isolated thunderstorms through Thursday, warning residents of additional strong winds, lightning and localized flooding.