A haboob[1] (Arabic: هَبوب, romanized: habūb, lit. 'blasting/drifting') is an intense dust storm generated by strong winds from weather fronts or the downdrafts of thunderstorms.

Aug 26, 2025 · These massive walls of dust are stunning to see. Here's what a haboob is, what causes it, why they're dangerous and where they can happen in the U.S.

Haboob, strong wind that occurs primarily along the southern edges of the Sahara in Sudan and is associated with large sandstorms and dust storms and may be accompanied by thunderstorms.

Haboobs are dense walls of dust kicked up by thunderstorms, and can be several miles long and several thousand feet high. Haboobs can travel hundreds of miles depending on the area’s geographic...

Jul 23, 2024 · A haboob is a massive wall of dust and sand, often seen during the monsoon season in the southwestern United States and other dry land area regions throughout the world.

Dust storms and Haboobs can occur anywhere in the United States but are most common in the Southwest. Haboobs occur as a result of thunderstorm outflow winds. Strong thunderstorm winds …

Aug 27, 2025 · According to O'Malley, the dust storm — known as a haboob — originated in southern Arizona around 3:30 p.m. local time and reached the city of Phoenix about two hours later.

Aug 26, 2025 · What causes a haboob? Haboobs differ from other dust storms as they are specifically triggered by an incoming thunderstorm over a dry and "dusty" region.

Apr 16, 2024 · Haboobs are intense dust storms characterized by strong winds carrying a wall of dust and debris. These storms typically occur in arid regions, particularly during the summer months, and …

Aug 26, 2025 · What is a haboob? Haboob is an Arabic word for a violent dust or sandstorm. They form when cold downdrafts from thunderstorms slam into the hot desert floor, spreading out in all directions.