Flash Flood Warnings Issued for Tucson and Pima County
Multiple flash flood warnings have been issued for the Tucson area and Pima County by the National Weather Service (NWS) due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Residents are urged to take precautions and stay informed about the latest weather updates.
Flash Flood Warning Details
A flash flood warning was in effect for the Tucson area until 7:45 p.m. on September 17th. Doppler radar and rain gauges indicated heavy rainfall from thunderstorms across the region, particularly from northwest to central Tucson. Rainfall amounts between 0.5 and 1 inch were reported.
The NWS warned of life-threatening flash flooding of creeks, streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses. Areas expected to experience flash flooding include Tucson, Casas Adobes, Flowing Wells, and the Catalina Foothills. Specific locations include State Route 77 between mile markers 70 and 73, First Avenue north of Fort Lowell Road, Stone Avenue at Mabel Street, and Alamo Wash between Speedway and Grant.
Pima County Flash Flood Warnings
Additional flash flood warnings were issued for Pima County through 8 p.m. on September 16th. The NWS stressed the importance of avoiding flooded roads, stating, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."
Specifically, warnings were issued for East Central Pima County until 8 p.m. MST, with radar indicating between 1 and 1.5 inches of rain. Areas at risk included Sahuarita and Green Valley, and Interstate 19 between mile markers 43 and 48. Another warning covered Eastern Pima County until 6:30 p.m. MST, with heavy rain impacting the Middle Tanque Verde Creek basin near Saguaro National Monument East. Areas at risk included Tucson, Tanque Verde, Saguaro National Park East and Catalina Foothills. Flash flood-prone locations also mentioned are Wentworth Road at Tanque Verde Wash, Tanque Verde Loop Rd at Tanque Verde Wash and Freeman Road between Broadway and Old Spanish Trail.
Safety Tips During a Flash Flood
- Evacuate if advised by authorities.
- Seek high ground immediately during flash floods.
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
- Be aware of hidden dangers and potential debris in floodwaters.
- Seek professional inspection of structures after flooding.
- Use a battery-operated radio for emergency information.
- Turn around, don't drown: Avoid driving into flooded streets.
Understanding Flash Floods
A flash flood is characterized by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, generally less than six hours. It is possible for flash floods to occur even in areas not directly receiving rain. A flash flood warning indicates imminent or ongoing flooding, while a flash flood watch signifies the possibility of flash flooding.
Monsoon Weather Pattern
Increased moisture in the region means scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible each afternoon and evening through Friday. Remnants of former tropical storm Mario are expected to bring scattered thunderstorms to the area through Friday, potentially leading to locally heavy rainfall and flash flooding. The region is expected to dry out this weekend, with triple-digit high temperatures returning to Tucson next week.
