Possible Tornado Causes Damage in Central Arizona

Violent storms swept through central Arizona overnight into Thursday, bringing a possible tornado that caused significant damage, including downed trees and utility poles, to a community in Heber-Overgaard. The storms also produced golf ball-sized hail, which damaged roofs, shattered windows, and dented cars in northern and central parts of the state on Wednesday night.

In Heber-Overgaard, a community of about 3,000 people located northeast of Phoenix, a tornado warning was issued Wednesday night as a storm moved through. Residents posted images and videos online showing uprooted trees and damaged structures. The Navajo County Sheriff's Office reported significant property damage and at least one minor injury.

State Rep. Walt Blackman, whose district includes the affected county, has requested a state of emergency declaration due to families being without power and widespread property damage. The Overgaard Baptist Church reported damage to trees, signs, fences, and windows, but confirmed that members were unharmed after taking shelter during the storm.

According to a weather service meteorologist in Flagstaff, warm, moist air from the California coast is fueling the storms. Changing winds can cause these storms to spin, creating conditions favorable for tornadoes. This type of severe weather is considered unusual for the region at this time of year.

Strong winds also toppled trees in Flagstaff and Mesa, with some falling onto homes and carports. The Coconino National Forest, northwest of Flagstaff, saw dozens of ponderosa pines, some over 30 feet tall, knocked down by the high winds.