Meteorologists issued a warning of “life-threatening flash flooding” across southern and south-central Arizona on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.
Thunderstorms in Pinal and Maricopa counties have already dropped heavy rain, ranging from an inch to an inch and a half, causing flash floods in the region, according to the advisory.
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Forecasters predict more rain in the area due to the remains of Tropical Storm Priscilla.
According to the NWS, even a brief storm can cause life-threatening scenarios, including “flooding of creeks and streams, normally dry washes, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses.”
Why It Matters
Flash floods are among the most deadly weather hazards in the United States, killing scores of people each year, especially in arid areas where dry ground cannot quickly absorb sudden, severe rainfall.
The warning emphasizes the growing risk to communities in Arizona and other states as climate patterns cause more severe and frequent storms. Flash flooding is extremely dangerous in Arizona because of the abundance of dry washes, creeks, and urban infrastructure that can overwhelm drainage systems without warning.
So far this year, the United States has reported a significant number of flash flooding fatalities in several states, including Texas, Illinois, and New Jersey, bringing renewed attention to the hazards of fast-rising waters.
What To Know
NWS meteorologists issued a life-threatening flash flood warning as Priscilla, a Category 2 hurricane, transitioned into a post-tropical system but continued to carry extra rainfall northward into Arizona.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm had sustained winds of 110 mph at its peak, but by Friday, they had dropped to 45 mph as it proceeded off the coast of Baja California.
Meteorologists followed rain bands coming into central Arizona, and NWS offices across the state issued flood watches and warnings.
Animated weather radar in the Phoenix area, as well as northern and eastern Arizona, displayed thunderstorms and torrential rain. Rainfall totals in central Arizona were forecast to be 3 to 4 inches, with local amounts of up to 6 inches possible—a substantial trigger for flash floods.
Flood and weather watches were issued in neighboring states such as Utah, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and sections of California.
The NWS Weather Prediction Center stated that “the greatest rainfall amounts are expected across south-central AZ, especially N [north] and E [east] of PHX,” but lighter rain will extend over a larger area.
NWS Phoenix encouraged citizens to avoid driving in flooded regions and to remain vigilant as rainfall increased, stating, “Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”
“Most flood deaths occur in vehicles,” the government warned.
What Happens Next
The immediate flash flood warning in Arizona expires at 1:45 p.m. Mountain Standard Time, but flood watches and alerts will remain in effect until Sunday as rain bands from Priscilla continue to strike the region.
Residents are advised to stay attentive to rapidly changing weather conditions and to follow local emergency officials’ safety guidelines.
