Flash Flood Warning Issued for Southwestern U.S. as Monsoon Storms Unleash Torrential Rains

Southwestern states brace for flash flooding; motorists urged to avoid inundated roadways

A flash flood warning was issued Saturday for parts of Arizona and New Mexico as intense monsoon thunderstorms dumped up to several inches of rain overnight, prompting road closures and emergency rescues.

The National Weather Service (NWS) highlighted the risk of rapid runoff and debris flows across burn scars and urban areas, warning residents to take immediate precautions and avoid low-lying washes.

Storms trigger swift responses Local authorities in Maricopa County closed portions of State Route 87 after floodwaters swept across the pavement, stranding multiple vehicles. In New Mexico, first responders conducted swift-water rescues in Albuquerque’s foothills when drainage channels overflowed.

Key impacts

• Widespread rainfall rates exceeded 1-2 inches per hour, with localized totals surpassing 4 inches in southern Arizona.
• Flash flooding forced the closure of Desert View Drive near the Grand Canyon’s eastern rim, isolating several park facilities.
• The Navajo Nation issued advisories for rapid water rise in normally dry washes and urged no travel during active storms.

Safety measures and forecasts Authorities recommend:

• Avoiding travel across flooded roads - “Turn around, don’t drown.”
• Monitoring local alerts via weather radio and mobile notifications.
• Preparing evacuation plans if located near steep terrain or recent wildfire burn areas.

Additional storms are expected to persist through the afternoon before shifting eastward, though isolated flood threats will remain in northern Mexico and the Central Plains. Emergency officials continue to monitor river gauges and coordinate sandbag distribution for vulnerable communities.