A flash flood warning has been issued for parts of Maricopa and Pinal counties in Arizona due to heavy thunderstorms expected through the evening of October 13. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that rainfall amounts of between 0.5 to 1 inch have already occurred, with flash flooding likely in areas including Apache Junction, Canyon Lake, Gold Camp, Goldfield, Lost Dutchman State Park, Superstition Mountains, and Tortilla Flat, affecting U.S. Route 60 between mile markers 194 and 200. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and avoid flooded roads and underpasses.
In Tempe, over 130 residents have been displaced following storm damage to multiple apartment buildings. The city has set up a temporary American Red Cross emergency shelter at Escalante Multi-Generation Center. Emergency services, including Tempe Police and Fire Medical Rescue, have seen an increase in incidents related to the storm, with crews busy clearing streets of debris to restore normal traffic conditions. The city is offering additional bulk trash pickups for the impacted precincts, encouraging residents to report downed power lines and gas leaks immediately.
In a related incident, the Phoenix Zoo announced it will be closed for two days, October 14 and 15, following significant storm damage. Fortunately, all animals are safe and accounted for, thanks to prompt actions by the zoo staff to ensure their well-being. The zoo expressed gratitude to various teams involved in the cleanup efforts, which involve addressing over a dozen downed trees and flood debris across the facility.
The storm system impacting the Valley is attributed to remnants from tropical storms Priscilla and Raymond, which historically lead to flash flooding in the region. The dry, clay-like desert soil prevents efficient absorption of rain, causing rapid runoff and increasing flood risk. This precarious situation is heightened by burn scars from previous wildfires, which create hydrophobic conditions that further exacerbate flooding during rain events.
Despite the challenges posed by the storm, meteorologists predict that conditions will begin to improve over the following days, with dry weather and below-normal temperatures expected. Residents are encouraged to stay up-to-date with local forecasts and heed warnings from the National Weather Service to ensure their safety during this hazardous weather event. As Arizona’s community demonstrates resilience, there is hope for recovery and restoration in the wake of this storm.