GLOBE, Ariz. — Heavy monsoon storms swept across central Arizona this week, bringing torrential rainfall, flash flooding, and dangerous weather conditions to communities including Globe and the Prescott area.
In Globe, thunderstorms produced intense downpours Tuesday afternoon that prompted flood concerns across eastern Arizona. The National Weather Service confirmed a funnel cloud near the city, while heavy rainfall led officials to warn of possible flooding in creeks, streams, rivers, and low-lying roadways. Flood watches remained in effect as additional storms moved through the region, increasing the risk of rapidly rising water and hazardous travel conditions.
The most significant damage occurred in the Prescott Valley area, where a powerful monsoon storm dropped approximately 2.5 inches of rain in about an hour Monday evening. Fast-moving floodwaters, reported to be as deep as five feet in some locations, rushed through neighborhoods, inundating homes and apartment buildings with water and mud. Several vehicles were swept away, heavy storage containers were displaced by the rushing water, and at least one resident had to be rescued after becoming trapped by the flooding.
Emergency crews from the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority responded to numerous flooding incidents throughout the Prescott Valley area. The American Red Cross is assisting displaced residents, while local officials have established sandbag distribution sites to help homeowners protect their properties from additional rainfall.
Forecasters say the active monsoon pattern is expected to continue, and residents throughout central and eastern Arizona are urged to remain alert for changing weather conditions. Officials advise motorists never to drive through flooded roadways, as flash flooding can develop quickly even after rainfall has ended.
