PHOENIX (AP) – Powerful thunderstorms brought heavy rain and strong winds to the Phoenix area, flooding roads, delaying flights, and knocking out power to thousands. Other southwest storms caused more flooding in Nevada.
The skies above downtown Phoenix were completely gray as the deluge began Saturday afternoon, eventually forcing authorities to close a section of Interstate 17 through the city for more than hour due to flooding.
Flight departures and landings resumed about 3:30 p.m. after they were halted for an hour at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Airport spokeswoman Julie Rodriguez said more than 40 flights scheduled to land in Phoenix were diverted to other airports.
“The wind caused some damage to the roof of Terminal 2 in the baggage claim area and in some of the gate areas. However, all three terminals at Sky Harbor are operational,” Rodriguez said in a statement.
Branches and debris littered streets around the city and at least one traffic light was knocked over. Some trees were toppled by the ensuing wind.