Storm blows through metro Phoenix, brings heavy rain and hail

PHOENIX — A storm blew through metro Phoenix on Thursday afternoon, bringing heavy rainfall and hail to parts of the Valley.

Surprise and Sun City got more than a tenth of an inch of rain as a flash flood warning remained in Maricopa County through 7:37 p.m.

Other parts of the Valley started to see rainfall at about 5 p.m.

The storm moved toward the East Valley and dropped upwards of an inch of rain along State Route 87 near Fountain Hills.

Parts of northeast Mesa got anywhere from 0.04 inches of rain to just over one-half inch.

4:47 PM MST Radar Update: Strong to severe thunderstorms have rapidly developed in the northeast Valley. The main impacts will include gusty winds, heavy rain, localized flooding, and small hail. #azwx pic.twitter.com/n2oNBNhOI1

— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) July 15, 2021

The National Weather Service in Phoenix said that winds could reach up to 60 mph with the possibility of hail up to .75 inches.

Drivers are advised not to cross a flooded wash, even if it doesn’t look deep because a few inches of running water could still pose a serious risk.

ADOT also warns people to not drive around road-closed signs as it is not only a risk but violators could be cited under state law.

People are advised to reduce speed and maintain a safe distance between vehicles during storms, avoid sudden braking that can cause sliding on wet pavement as well as reducing speed by slowly taking your foot off the gas pedal and braking slowly.

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