Phoenix, January 9, 2026
Significant storms over the past 48 hours have led to numerous flight delays at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Hail and challenging conditions have affected air travel, prompting passengers to check with airlines for updates. These disruptions are reminders of the airport’s vulnerability during adverse weather, which can cause widespread cancellations and impact operations even in clear weather elsewhere in the nation.
Phoenix
Recent Storms Cause Flight Delays and Disruptions at Sky Harbor
The Phoenix area has been experiencing significant weather activity over the past 48 hours, resulting in numerous flight delays at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Reports indicate that portions of the region have encountered hail and graupel, contributing to challenging conditions for air travel. Passengers with flights scheduled through Sky Harbor are strongly advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on their itineraries.
Immediate and Ongoing Impacts on Air Travel
The current storm system is actively affecting airport operations, leading to a ripple effect on flight schedules. These disruptions are not uncommon for Sky Harbor, which frequently grapples with adverse weather. Significant flight cancellations have also been observed at Phoenix Sky Harbor in the past. The Federal Aviation Administration plays a critical role in managing air traffic, and flights into Phoenix can be affected by weather or other conditions not only locally but also in other parts of the nation. This interconnectedness means that even clear skies in Phoenix do not guarantee uninterrupted service if conditions are poor elsewhere. Flights have been delayed due to storms in Phoenix in various instances.
Past incidents vividly illustrate the severity and scope of weather-related challenges at the airport. For example, severe thunderstorms in October 2025 led to widespread flight delays after a ground stop was issued, temporarily halting air traffic to ensure safety. Similarly, a monsoon storm in August 2025 caused power outages and significant damage across various sections of the airport. This included impacts to crucial infrastructure like the PHX Sky Train, which facilitates passenger transit between terminals, and reports of leaks within both airport terminals.
Visibility can also be severely compromised during these weather events. In August 2025, a massive dust storm engulfed Phoenix, with wind gusts at Sky Harbor International Airport reportedly reaching up to 70 mph and causing zero visibility. Such extreme conditions can lead to areas of damage and severely impede flight operations, necessitating careful management by air traffic control and airport staff. These examples highlight the range of disruptions that storms can inflict on the airport’s infrastructure and its ability to maintain normal service.
Advisory for Travelers
Given the dynamic nature of weather systems and their proven impact on air travel, passengers are urged to exercise caution and proactive planning. It is paramount to verify flight statuses directly with airlines well in advance of traveling to the airport, utilizing official airline websites or mobile applications. This is especially true for those connecting through Phoenix or originating their journeys from nearby cities like Tucson, where travelers have also faced delays stemming from Sky Harbor’s operational challenges. Beyond checking flight status, passengers might consider flexible booking options during known storm seasons or allowing extra time for transit to and from the airport. Real-time updates from official airport social media channels or mobile applications can also prove invaluable.
Airport authorities and airlines collaborate closely to minimize disruptions and prioritize safety during these events. The close coordination between airport management, airlines, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is critical during periods of inclement weather. The FAA’s role involves issuing air traffic control advisories, rerouting flights, or implementing ground delays and ground stops when necessary to maintain safety. These decisions are made based on real-time weather radar, wind shear alerts, and runway conditions. While these measures can cause inconvenience, they are essential for managing risks associated with severe weather, protecting both passengers and flight crews. The airport also deploys resources to address any infrastructure damage swiftly, such as clearing debris or managing water accumulation from heavy rainfall, to restore full functionality as quickly as possible.
Background on Phoenix’s Weather Vulnerability
Phoenix is known for its susceptibility to intense weather phenomena, particularly during its monsoon season. These periods bring not only thunderstorms with heavy rain and hail but also dramatic dust storms, locally known as haboobs. The combination of these conditions regularly tests the resilience of the region’s infrastructure, including its vital transportation hubs like Sky Harbor International Airport. Understanding this recurring pattern helps travelers anticipate potential delays and plan their journeys more effectively.
Staying informed through official airport channels and airline communications is the most effective strategy for mitigating the impact of weather-related travel disruptions. As the region continues to experience varied and sometimes extreme weather, flexibility and awareness remain key for all air travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is currently affecting flights at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport?
- Storms have been impacting portions of the Phoenix area over the past 48 hours, resulting in numerous flight delays at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Reports indicate occurrences of hail and graupel in some affected regions.
- How do national weather conditions affect flights into Phoenix?
- Flights into Phoenix can be affected by weather or other conditions not only locally but also in other parts of the nation.
- What kind of damage has Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport experienced from past storms?
- A monsoon storm in August 2025 caused power outages and significant damage across various sections of the airport, including the PHX Sky Train, and reports of leaks within both airport terminals.
- Have dust storms impacted Sky Harbor Airport operations?
- In August 2025, a massive dust storm engulfed Phoenix, with wind gusts at Sky Harbor International Airport reportedly reaching up to 70 mph and causing zero visibility. Such extreme conditions can lead to areas of damage and severely impede flight operations.
- Are travelers from nearby cities also affected by delays at Sky Harbor?
- Travelers from nearby cities like Tucson have also faced delays stemming from Sky Harbor’s operational challenges.
Key Features of Storm Impacts on Phoenix Sky Harbor
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Current Weather | Storms, hail, and graupel impacting Phoenix area in last 48 hours. | Local (Phoenix Area) |
| Immediate Impact | Significant flight delays at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. | Local (Phoenix) |
| Broader Flight Impact | Weather or other conditions in other parts of the nation may affect flights in Phoenix. | Nationwide |
| Past Infrastructure Damage | Monsoon storm (Aug 2025) caused outages, damage to PHX Sky Train, and leaks in terminals. | Local (Phoenix) |
| Past Extreme Conditions | Dust storm (Aug 2025) with 70 mph wind gusts, zero visibility, and damage reported at Sky Harbor. | Local (Phoenix) |
| Regional Travel Impact | Tucson travelers have faced flight delays at Sky Harbor. | State-level (Arizona) |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
