Campers Evacuate as Flash Floods Threaten Arizona's Havasu Creek

Last Saturday, September 27, 2025, the National Weather Service in Flagstaff issued a flash flood warning for Coconino County, Arizona. The warning was triggered by heavy rainfall over the Havasu Creek basin, which has already led to flash flooding near the Supai area.

According to the weather service, law enforcement reported the flash flooding around 3:06 PM local time. Up to 0.5 inches of rain had already fallen, and an additional 0.25 inches was possible in the warned area. The National Weather Service warned that life-threatening flash flooding was already occurring in and around the Havasu Creek basin.

Authorities urged campers and hikers in the affected areas to immediately seek higher ground, as foot bridges in the Supai Campground were at risk of being washed out and some campsites could be flooded. The warning also included the Colorado River between river miles 156 and 158, as well as several swimming holes along Havasu Creek near Supai.

Flash flooding is a common occurrence in Arizona's desert landscape, as heavy rainfall can quickly overwhelm the region's dry riverbeds and canyons. Even a small amount of rain can trigger dangerous flooding events, especially in areas that have been impacted by wildfires or extended dry spells.