Monsoon Mayhem: Dozen Boats Stranded as Storms Ravage Lake Pleasant

Strong storms brought high winds and even some dust storms to the Valley on Sunday. Out at Lake Pleasant, they caused some big waves and chaos for boaters.

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. — Strong monsoon storms hit the northwest Valley on Sunday afternoon bringing high winds, rain, and even a dust storm with them.

Out at Lake Pleasant, the storms caused a chaotic scene for boaters as the winds stirred up some big waves, making the lake look more like the ocean as the waves poured water into boats and tossed the boats around.

12News viewer Greg Ervin sent in a video of the scene, which saw boats crash into each other and get pulled underwater.

All in all, the storms caused about a dozen boats to sink or get beached, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.

MCSO said they had to rescue about 30 people but luckily, no one was hurt.

More monsoon storms are expected this week.