A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Tucson at 2:25 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27. This warning applies to Pima and Pinal counties.
Meteorologists warn of winds as strong as 60 mph.
Use caution: Officials warn of hail as large as 1 inch.
The National Weather Service warns: “Seek shelter inside a well-built structure and stay away from windows. This storm is capable of producing damaging winds and large hail.”
See weather radar for Pima and Pinal counties
What are weather service meteorologists saying?
At 2:25 p.m., the weather service issued a statement:
“The National Weather Service in Tucson has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for: Northeastern Pima County in southeastern Arizona, Southeastern Pinal County in southeastern Arizona, Until 3:15 p.m. MST. At 2:25 p.m. MST, a severe thunderstorm was located near Oro Valley, moving northeast at 20 mph.
HAZARD: 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail.
SOURCE: Radar indicated.
IMPACT: Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Locations impacted include: Tucson, Catalina, Oro Valley, Marana, Casas Adobes, Flowing Wells, Saddlebrooke, Saddlebrooke Ranch, Tortolita, Mount Lemmon/Summerhaven, Catalina State Park, Catalina Foothills, Picture Rocks, Oracle Junction, Biosphere 2 and Dove Mountain. This includes the following highways: Route 79 between mile markers 92 and 93; Route 77 between mile markers 71 and 98; Interstate 10 between mile markers 243 and 251.”
What is a severe thunderstorm warning?
Thunderstorms are a staple in Arizona, especially during the state’s monsoon season, which runs from June 15 to Sept. 30. The monsoon is characterized by intense heat, surges of moisture and atmospheric instability, creating clouds and storm chances in the afternoon.
While storms in Arizona are most frequent during the monsoon, they can happen year-round. Storms can be spotty and short-lived, while others can unleash strong winds, flashes of lightning and torrential downpours.
A severe thunderstorm warning means the area is experiencing or is about to experience a storm with winds of 58 mph or higher and/or hail an inch in diameter or larger.
Tips for staying safe during thunderstorms in Arizona
Go indoors at the first sound of thunder. Lightning strikes can occur miles away from the parent storm.
Resume outdoor activities 30 minutes after the storm passes.
Avoid electronics, plumbing and windows.
Remember to bring pets inside.
If there is time, secure loose objects outside as these objects often become dangerous flying debris in high winds.
This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Tucson area