News Summary
Phoenix recently experienced record-breaking rainfall, surpassing previous October records with over 0.70 inches in just four hours. Areas like Tempe recorded significant amounts, leading to a flood watch across the region. The trends reflect unusual weather patterns linked to Hurricane Priscilla’s remnants, raising concerns about flooding despite the drought relief the rain brings. Continued rain is predicted, prompting monitoring of further weather developments.
Phoenix has set a new record for rainfall on October 11, 2025, as the city experienced unprecedented precipitation within just four hours, highlighting the unusual weather patterns recently affecting the region. The record-breaking rainfall exceeded 0.70 inches by approximately 12:30 p.m., significantly surpassing the previous daily rainfall record for the date of 0.31 inches that had stood since 1928. The new figure was officially registered at 4:05 a.m. during National Weather Service (NWS) readings from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Various areas across the city and its surroundings were affected by the heavy rainfall. Notably, Tempe witnessed over 1 inch of rain from 1 a.m. to 7 a.m., with Broadway Road and Loop 101 receiving 1.1 inches, while University Drive and Alma School Road recorded 1.06 inches. Additionally, Scottsdale saw nearly all areas receive at least 0.5 inches of rain, with the East Valley recording up to 0.75 inches. Mesa Gateway Airport reported 0.63 inches of rain, and Mesa Drive along the US 60 recorded 0.75 inches during the early morning hours.
As the day progressed, widespread light to moderate showers continued across most of south-central Arizona. The rain activity was anticipated to cease in the Phoenix area between 9 and 10 a.m. MST but was expected to continue in higher terrain areas east of Phoenix into the early afternoon. Unfavorable weather conditions led to a flood watch that was initially set to last through Saturday night but was subsequently extended to Sunday evening, as additional rainfall of “1 to 2 inches” was forecasted through Sunday.
On the preceding day, Friday, Phoenix had already recorded 0.26 inches of rain by the day’s end, approaching the previous daily rainfall record for that day. The rainfall event is attributed to the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla, which has been significantly impacting weather conditions in the area, contributing to considerable rainfall and the risk of flooding throughout the weekend. The National Weather Service indicated that strong thunderstorms could develop overnight, leading into Sunday.
Due to the anticipated heavy rains, numerous areas, including Phoenix and Tucson, were placed under flood watches. The rain levels were projected to reach amounts equivalent to several months’ worth, particularly alarming given that the average rainfall for Phoenix in October is around 0.56 inches. The storms and subsequent rainfall posed a risk of localized flooding, especially in regions less accustomed to such significant precipitation.
Following years of drought, much of Arizona has seen ongoing dry conditions, leaving the state and neighboring Utah under drought classifications. While much-needed rainfall for water supply is essential, the excessive amounts can hinder soil absorption, leading to increased runoff and flooding risk. The National Weather Service also forecasted an elevated flooding risk from storms anticipated in the coming days, which includes the arrival of another system stemming from Raymond’s remnants.
Overall, the substantial rainfall in Phoenix serves as both a relief for drought conditions yet a cautionary reminder of the potential dangers associated with extreme weather patterns. The region will be monitoring conditions closely as further weather developments take shape over the weekend.
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Additional Resources
- KTAR News: Phoenix Record Rainfall on October 11
- The New York Times: Weather in Phoenix
- AZ Family: Rainy Start in Phoenix Area
- Phoenix New Times: Wettest Monsoon Seasons
- The Weather Channel: Southwest Tropical Flooding
- Wikipedia: Climate of Phoenix
- Google Search: Phoenix Weather
- Google Scholar: Phoenix Rainfall Record
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Phoenix, Arizona
- Google News: Phoenix Rain October 2025
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
