A dust storm warning was issued for Pima County in southeastern Arizona by the National Weather Service in Tucson on Sunday, August 30, 2026. The alert was issued at 6:17 p.m. MST and is expected to last until 7:15 p.m. MST. The warning covers Northwestern Pima County, where a wall of dust was detected moving northwest at a speed of 25 mph.
The National Weather Service has advised that the dust storm poses a significant hazard with visibility dropping to less than a quarter mile. The storm is expected to impact areas including Ajo, Hickiwan, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, San Simon, Why, Gunsight, Charco 27, Vaya Chin, KuKatch, and San Simon West. Highways Route 85 between mile markers 33 and 78 and Route 86 between mile markers 53 and 85 are also affected.
A haboob, as this type of dust storm is known, typically occurs during the monsoon season in Arizona, which runs from June to September. These storms form when cold downdrafts from thunderstorms collide with the hot desert floor, causing large amounts of dust to be lifted into the air and pushed forward in a wall-like formation.
The term "haboob" is an Arabic word that translates to "big, blasting winds," according to Andrew Deemer, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service in Phoenix and a former linguist. Haboobs can last from a few minutes to an hour, depending on wind speed and the availability of dust.
For drivers caught in a dust storm, the Arizona Department of Transportation's "Pull Aside, Stay Alive" campaign offers guidance. Drivers are advised to immediately check traffic around their vehicles, slow down, and exit the highway if possible. It is crucial to avoid stopping in travel lanes or emergency lanes and to find a safe place to pull off the road. Vehicle lights should be turned off to prevent other drivers from crashing into parked cars. Drivers are also reminded to stay in their vehicles with seat belts fastened until the storm passes.
More information on dust storm safety can be found at [PullAsideStayAlive.org](https://www.PullAsideStayAlive.org), and additional safety tips for driving in rainstorms are available at [azdot.gov/monsoon](https://www.azdot.gov/monsoon).
This latest dust storm comes as the 2026 monsoon season continues to bring unpredictable weather to the region. The monsoon season is known for its unpredictable and sometimes severe weather patterns, which can include heavy rain, hail, and dust storms.
The dust storm warning serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by residents and visitors during the monsoon season in Arizona. The state's arid landscape and the intense summer storms make for a dynamic and sometimes dangerous environment.
Meteorologists continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and warnings to keep the public informed. The National Weather Service encourages everyone to stay tuned to local news and weather reports for the latest information on this developing situation.
As the monsoon season progresses, the National Weather Service in Tucson will remain vigilant, issuing warnings and advisories as needed to keep the public safe. The agency's dedication to providing accurate and timely information is crucial in helping communities prepare for and respond to the challenges of the monsoon season.
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