Dust Envelops Phoenix, Again

3rd big dust storm to hit region since July
By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff
Posted Aug 19, 2011 7:20 AM CDT
Dust Envelops Phoenix, Again
Lightning reveals a large layer of dust in the sky Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011 in Gilbert, Ariz.   (AP Photo/Matt York)

Phoenix weathered a massive dust storm last night prompted by a string of thunderstorms. Thick trees were blown down as winds hit 60mph in some areas, the Arizona Republic reports. With power lines down, thousands lost electricity. Car windows were shattered and plane takeoffs and landings were halted for about 40 minutes. Minor injuries were reported in the third huge dust storm to hit the area since July. The giant wall of dust slashed visibility to less than a quarter-mile. (More rainstorms stories.)

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