Quartzsite was hit hard by a storm on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010. Using everything in sight to hold down the Big Tent, organizers evacuated everyone and the 27th Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show shut down in preparation of the big storm. Alex Taft, Town Manager said, "I'm so glad they took those precautions, as it kept people safe."

Some people did not heed the warnings, as Quartzsite Police were called to rescue stranded motorists in Tyson Wash during the night. The wash was running so strong rescuers resorted to "bucket lift" the occupants to safety. During the night RVs moved to higher ground (even inches help in the desert) as the parking lot at Rice Ranch turned into a lake again, overflowing the bank and flooding vendors and areas around The Gamblers on E. Kuehn.

Strong winds uprooted many saguaros around town and destroyed many vendors' tents. Hard hit was Tyson Wells Showgrounds and Desert Gardens. The next day brought out residents and visitors to view the damage and more calls to the police with "stupid motorist laws" being broken.

Vendors helped each other with packing, and saving merchandise, finding parts and pieces of canopies, and support. Many vendors set up within 24 hours and were back in business for the crowds. Once again, folks got creative and made lemonade from lemons!