A powerful storm system swept through Phoenix in mid-November, bringing unexpected quarter-sized hail that transformed the Valley into a winter wonderland, coating local neighborhoods in white slush. This unusual weather event was attributed to a cold-core low-pressure system that lingered longer than expected, allowing storms to gain strength and generate substantial hail.
As the storm hit on November 19, areas of the West Valley and neighborhoods near Ahwatukee were blanketed in slush, creating hazardous driving conditions. Social media was abuzz with images of the hail-covered landscape, leading to comparisons of Phoenix to Flagstaff and other typically snow-laden regions. Erinanne Saffell, Arizona’s state climatologist, remarked, “For Arizona, getting this amount of hail is not that usual. We’re still getting more precipitation, and that’s a good thing.”
This fall has been notably wetter for much of Arizona, with Sky Harbor International Airport recording significant rainfall this month. While November’s precipitation reached 0.29 inches, this follows a remarkable 2.26 inches in September and 3.26 inches in October, raising hopes for continued moisture in the arid region.
The hailstorm was sparked by a low-pressure system that moved slowly from the California coast, leading to stronger storms in the region, particularly around Glendale, where hail effectively accumulated on roads and yards. Alicia Ryan, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, noted that increased atmospheric instability contributed to the intense storms that day.
Meteorological phenomena such as hail formation stem from strong updrafts within thunderstorms, which lift raindrops into freezing layers of the atmosphere. In Arizona, hail is relatively rare as storm activity during the monsoon season typically doesn’t support the conditions necessary for hail creation. However, the fall season presents a different scenario with lower temperatures, making it more conducive to hail’s formation.
As the storm moves eastward, the Phoenix area is anticipated to enjoy calmer weather on November 20, followed by the arrival of another low-pressure system on November 21. This next system brings a 20 to 30% chance of rain to the Valley and up to 60 to 70% in higher terrain areas to the north and east. Meteorologists predict a return to normal temperatures in the low 70s as the weather settles post-Thanksgiving.
Overall, this November storm has served as a reminder of Arizona’s capacity for unexpected weather, showcasing the region’s ability to experience dramatic shifts even within its typically dry climate. The heightened rainfall could potentially alleviate drought conditions, ultimately benefiting the state in the long term.