NWS issues rare tornado warning for parts of Pinal, Pima counties

Published on: Sep 12, 2022 at 16:10

A tornado warning is in effect through 4:30 p.m. Monday for parts of southern Pinal and northern Pima counties, according to the National Weather service in Tucson.

At 4:04 p.m. a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located about 35 miles southeast of Maricopa and 20 miles west of Avra Valley moving north at 20 mph. NWS reports that some storm chasers report a rapidly rotating wall cloud associated with the storm.

Golf-ball size hail may be present, as well as flying debris that could be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes could be damaged or destroyed and roofs, windows, vehicles and trees could incur damage, the NWS said.

This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over largely remote areas but those in the storm warning boundaries are advised to take cover immediately by moving to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building away from windows.

Those outdoors, in a mobile home or in a vehicle should move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.