Arizona faces severe dust storms and monsoon weather

Central and southern Arizona are facing severe weather conditions due to monsoon-driven dust storms and thunderstorms. The National Weather Service issued blowing dust advisories for several counties, including Maricopa, Pinal, Pima, and Santa Cruz, warning that wind gusts could reach up to 66 mph.

Recent storms have already caused significant disruption, knocking out power to over 32,000 customers. Visibility in some areas dropped to less than a quarter-mile, and air quality reached hazardous levels according to the EPA. The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the region under a Level 1 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms.

Health officials have raised concerns regarding Coccidioides, a microscopic fungus found in Arizona soil that can be dispersed by wind. Inhaling these spores can cause Valley fever, a potentially deadly lung infection. While officials have not confirmed if this specific storm will contain the fungus, the CDC notes the organism is prevalent throughout the state and neighboring Southwestern regions. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, are advised to stay indoors.