TUCSON, AZ — The National Weather Service in Tucson has issued a flash flood warning for north central Pima County and southwestern Pinal County after overnight thunderstorms dropped heavy rain across southeastern Arizona. Radar indicated that some areas had already picked up between 1.00 and 3.50 inches of rain, with the hardest totals near and east of North Komelik.
The warning was in effect until 1:30 a.m. MST. Forecasters said flash flooding was already underway, especially in normally dry washes and low-lying places that feed into the Santa Rosa Wash. Officials warned that life-threatening flooding could spread quickly into creeks, streams, roads, streets, urban areas and underpasses.
Where the flooding risk is highest
The danger is focused on North Komelik and nearby drainages, including Anegam Wash, Sil Nakya Wash and Santa Rosa Wash. The weather service said the heaviest rainfall, between 2.50 and 3.50 inches, fell near and east of North Komelik, where runoff can move fast through desert washes and catch drivers by surprise.
That type of flooding is especially hazardous at night because water can fill crossings before motorists see it. The warning urged people to turn around and not drive through flooded roads, noting that most flood deaths happen in vehicles. Even shallow water can conceal washed-out pavement, stronger currents and debris moving through channels and low spots.
Extreme heat remains in place
The flood warning is unfolding alongside an extreme heat warning that remains in effect until 8 p.m. MST Saturday. Forecasters said dangerously hot conditions will continue, with daytime highs of 103 to 111 degrees and overnight lows ranging from 79 to 85 degrees across much of the region.
Areas included in the heat warning are Pinal County, the Tohono O’odham Nation, the Tucson metro area, the Upper Gila River Valley and western Pima County. The weather service said heat risk will stay major through Tuesday, then shift to widespread major to extreme heat risk from Wednesday through Saturday.
Safety steps for residents and workers
Officials said heat-related illness rises sharply during extreme heat events, especially for people working outdoors or spending long periods outside. OSHA recommends frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces, and anyone showing signs of heat illness should be moved to a cool, shaded place right away.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires a call to 911. The weather service also advised residents to reschedule strenuous activity for early morning or evening when possible, drink plenty of water, wear lightweight loose-fitting clothing and watch for the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke as the dangerous weather continues.
When the weather turns dangerous, SVH Snow is watching.
