Damage reported in Overgaard
A likely tornado caused substantial damage around Heber-Overgaard on Wednesday night, KGUN 9 reported, citing ABC15 radar scans and images supplied by viewers. ABC15 meteorologist Amber Sullins estimated that it reached the ground at about 8 p.m.
Arizona state Representative Walt Blackman said one person had been injured and the affected area had lost power. He called on the governor to declare a state of emergency and said local and county officials were still examining the damage and residents’ immediate needs.
The Navajo County Sheriff’s Office separately reported minor injuries without giving a number or further details. County deputies, fire officials and state public-safety personnel described extensive damage linked to the weather event in Overgaard.
Emergency assistance arranged
A reception site for displaced residents was opened at the Navajo County Heber Complex on West Country Club Drive. Officials were also working with the American Red Cross to arrange a shelter.
A National Weather Service tornado warning on Wednesday evening covered Heber-Overgaard, Aripine, Mogollon Airpark and Twin Lake. KGUN 9 reported that 11 tornado warnings were issued in different parts of Arizona during Wednesday.
Severe-weather risk continues
KOLD Tucson forecast an unusually high severe-weather risk across Arizona through Thursday, with further chances of rain. It said a weather system moving down the California coast was drawing in remaining tropical moisture, which high pressure was directing toward the state.