News Summary
Tropical Storm Priscilla has intensified rain and flood risks across Arizona, with heavy rainfall expected from Friday through the weekend. Flood watches have been issued, and residents are advised to take precautions, including picking up free sandbags. The storm has already disrupted travel at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and necessitated the cancellation of public events. Governor Katie Hobbs is seeking disaster assistance as the region prepares for anticipated flash flooding and infrastructural impacts.
Phoenix is currently experiencing the effects of Tropical Storm Priscilla, which has brought significant rainfall and heightened flood risks across Arizona. Scattered showers and weak thunderstorms began moving north into Arizona early Thursday morning, and residents can expect on-and-off rainfall throughout Thursday, increasing into Friday and over the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for various regions, including the Valley, southern deserts, Superstitions, Globe, and New River from Friday through Saturday, with the heaviest rainfall anticipated on Saturday and Sunday, particularly in southeastern Arizona.
As temperatures in Phoenix began at approximately 79°F Thursday morning and reached around 93°F by afternoon, meteorologists have forecasted that significant rain could total over 2-3 inches throughout southern Arizona. The combination of prolonged rain and potential runoff from urban areas and low-lying regions has resulted in heightened risks of flash flooding. Ground stops were reported at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Thursday due to weather-related disruptions.
In preparation for the impending storm, the City of Mesa has made provisions for residents by offering free sandbags to help mitigate flood risks. These sandbags can be obtained at specific transportation department locations. Additionally, residents in Phoenix can pick up free sand for sandbags at designated sites ahead of the storm. The Arizona Department of Transportation is urging drivers to exercise caution on wet roads and to monitor conditions as the weather worsens.
The National Weather Service has also extended flood advisories for parts of Gila, Yavapai, and Coconino counties. In response to the flash flood concerns, certain trails and access points at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park have been closed. As the storm progresses, Arizona’s Governor Katie Hobbs has requested an SBA Administrative Disaster Declaration for Gila County, addressing flooding damages in the region. A disaster assistance center for residents affected by flooding in Gila County will also be open over the weekend.
The potential for Tropical Storm Priscilla to cause further disruption extends beyond just rainfall. The Arizona Fall League event scheduled for October 11 has been canceled, along with other public events such as the Sedona Heritage Museum Arts & Crafts Fair.
Meteorologists are continuing to monitor the situation closely, including the potential for another tropical system to follow a similar path as Priscilla early next week. While the remnants of Priscilla are no longer classified as a hurricane, they still pose considerable flooding risks throughout the region.
In summary, Arizona residents, particularly those in affected areas, are encouraged to stay informed about the weather conditions and take necessary precautions. This storm could lead to significant impacts due to heavy rainfall and the consequent risk of flooding throughout the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Phoenix Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks
Tropical Storm Priscilla’s Remnants Raise Flash Flood Risks
Heavy Storms Expected to Impact Phoenix and Arizona
Hurricane Priscilla Brings Heavy Rain to Arizona
Phoenix Weather Prepared for Rainfall from Hurricane Priscilla
Arizona Braces for Unusually Wet Weekend as Hurricane Priscilla Approaches
Phoenix Weather Forecast: Rising Temperatures and Potential Rain
Additional Resources
- New York Times: Tropical Storm Priscilla and Rain Forecast
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
- AZ Central: Hurricane Priscilla Live Updates
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Priscilla
- AZ Family: Tropical Storm Priscilla Brings Heavy Rain
- Google News: Tropical Storm Priscilla
- CBS News: Tropical Storm Priscilla Forms
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Forecast
- ABC News: Tropical Storm Priscilla Drenches Southwest US
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm
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.
