Contributed Article from Graham County Board of Supervisors/Emergency Management
GRAHAM COUNTY – As the Frye Fire continues to burn roughly 40,000 acres on Mount Graham, it possess an additional threat as the monsoon season arrives.
Be aware of post-wildfire hazards, primarily flooding and landslides. large-scale wildfires dramatically alter the terrain and ground conditions. Wildfires leave the ground charred, bare and unable to absorb water, creating conditions for flash flooding and mudflows. Flood risk remains significantly higher until vegetation is restored – up to five years after a wildfire.
Flooding after a fire is often more severe, as debris and ash left from the fire can form mudflows. As rainwater moves across charred and denuded ground, it can also pick up soil and sediment and carry it in a stream of floodwaters.
Flooding is the most common hazard in Arizona and the United States, with all states experiencing floods or flash floods in recent years. Arizona sees between 40-100 floods each year, costing millions of dollars in repair and recovery costs.
Arizona’s floods are typically caused by the monsoon, winter storms or as a result of heavy rain in a fire-damaged region. Because of events such as the Frye Fire, the Department of Emergency Management and Military Affairs (DEMA) encourages people to understand their flood risk, prepare accordingly and mitigate against a potential flooding event.
- Visit Flood Smart to determine if your property is at risk for flooding. Flood hazard maps show risk in every community.
- Measure the cost of a flood. Calculate the cost of potential damage to your home.
- Insure your home. Talk to your insurance provider about the type of flood insurance coverage you need.
- Prepare your home against flood waters by clearing debris from gutters, raising appliances and constructing barriers to prevent water from entering the home.
For additional information regarding flooding visit the sites listed below:
Monsoon: https://ein/az.gov/monsoon-awareness
Flood Risk: https://ein.az.gov/flood-risk
Wildfire: https://ein.az.gov/hazards/wildfire
National Flood Insurance Program/FEMA: https://fema.gov/national-flood-insurane-program
