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Life-Threatening Flooding Imminent in Coconino County
21 Jul
Summary
- Flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings issued for Coconino County.
- Life-threatening flash flooding and quarter-size hail are expected.
- Warnings emphasize immediate evacuation from washes and creeks.
On Monday, July 20th, the National Weather Service in Flagstaff issued a Flash Flood Warning for Coconino and Navajo Counties in north-central Arizona, effective until 7:45 p.m. MST. This alert includes the Colorado River between river miles 36 and 61. Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain west of Winslow, along I-40, by mid-afternoon.
Life-threatening flash flooding and quarter-size hail are hazards associated with these storms. Authorities urge campers and hikers to evacuate washes and creeks immediately, as flooding is occurring or expected shortly. Significant impacts are anticipated, including inundation of normally dry washes, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses. Damage to vehicles is likely.
Arizona's desert terrain is particularly vulnerable to flash floods, which can develop rapidly due to heavy rainfall in short periods. Even minimal rainfall, like an inch per hour, can trigger flooding as desert soils struggle to absorb water, leading to increased runoff, especially in steep canyons or areas affected by wildfires. A flash flood warning signifies that flooding is impending or already happening.
