Over 500 homes damaged as powerful microburst hits Tempe, Arizona

A supercell thunderstorm that developed over the Phoenix metropolitan area on October 13 produced a powerful microburst that caused widespread straight-line wind damage across Tempe and neighboring areas. The downburst path extended approximately 13–16 km (8–10 miles) in length and 5–8 km (3–5 miles) in width.

Wind gusts during the event reached up to 145 km/h (90 mph), with most affected areas experiencing winds near 113 km/h (70 mph). The NWS confirmed the damage pattern was consistent with straight-line winds rather than tornadic circulation.

The microburst dropped about 12 mm (0.5 inch) of rain in roughly 10 minutes, briefly flooding streets and low-lying areas.

City officials reported that more than 550 residences, including apartment buildings and condos, were damaged, along with approximately 70 small businesses.

At least 130 people were displaced due to structural impacts. The Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department responded to 180 emergency calls in just three hours.

At the storm’s height, various sources reported between 22 000 and 34 000 power outages. Utility crews from Salt River Project (SRP), Arizona Public Service (APS), and city services worked overnight to restore service and clear debris. The city opened a temporary shelter at the Escalante Multi-Generational Center (2150 E. Orange St.) for displaced residents.

No fatalities have been confirmed, but authorities reported several minor injuries caused mainly by falling debris and broken glass.

A microburst is a compact, rapidly descending column of cool air that spreads outward upon hitting the ground, producing intense divergent winds. Though small in scale, such events can cause damage comparable to that of weak tornadoes.

Cleanup and recovery operations are ongoing. City officials said structural inspections and debris removal could take several days, with full recovery expected to extend over the coming weeks.

Rishav Kothari

Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.

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