Severe Storm Causes Widespread Damage Across Tempe — Dozens of Homes and Businesses Affected

Severe Storm Causes Widespread Damage Across Tempe — Dozens of Homes and Businesses Affected

Staff Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published October 13th, 2025

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TEMPE, Ariz. — City officials are responding to significant damage across Tempe following a powerful storm that struck the area earlier today, leaving more than 130 residents displaced and thousands without power.

According to the City of Tempe, multiple departments have been mobilized to assist with recovery efforts, debris removal, and public safety operations. The city has partnered with the American Red Cross to open a temporary emergency shelter at the Escalante Multi-Generational Center (2150 E. Orange St.) for anyone affected by the storm.

Utility providers SRP and APS estimate that approximately 10,000 customers could remain without power until around 8 p.m. Monday evening as crews continue to make repairs.

Several apartment buildings across Tempe sustained severe structural damage, forcing dozens of residents to evacuate. Photos from the scene show large trees uprooted, vehicles crushed, and roof collapses at multiple locations. One industrial complex in south Tempe also suffered extensive damage.

City officials are urging affected property owners who need help boarding up buildings to call the Tempe Police non-emergency line at 480-350-8311 for guidance and assistance.

Meanwhile, Tempe Police and Tempe Fire Medical Rescue report a sharp increase in emergency calls citywide, including downed power lines, road blockages, and flooding. Despite the surge in calls, both departments — along with regional partners through the Automatic Aid System — continue to respond to all emergencies as quickly as possible.

Public Works and Transportation crews are currently on the streets clearing fallen trees, removing debris, and restoring traffic signals. The Solid Waste Division is conducting emergency debris pickup and will provide additional green waste collections in heavily impacted areas. Residents can call 480-350-4311 beginning tomorrow or visit tempe.gov/311to report cleanup needs.

Residents are being asked to avoid flooded or damaged areas, report any downed power lines or gas leaks immediately, and use caution when traveling throughout the city.

City officials thanked the community for coming together during the crisis, stating that Tempe’s strong sense of unity and cooperation will help the city recover faster.

“The connectivity of Tempe residents helping each other will make a world of difference today and in the days to come,” the city said in a statement.

For ongoing updates and safety information, residents are encouraged to follow the City of Tempe and Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department on their official social media channels.

📍 Emergency Shelter:
Escalante Multi-Generational Center
2150 E Orange St, Tempe, AZ

📞 Report Non-Emergencies:
Tempe Police: 480-350-8311
Public Works Cleanup Requests: 480-350-4311 or tempe.gov/311

📸 Photos Courtesy of City of Tempe Government

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