Traffic
Arizona Flooding Update: SR 89A Damaged, Highway Cleanup Underway
Flagstaff, AZ – Arizona highway crews are continuing emergency cleanup and repair operations Monday after record rainfall triggered flooding across the state, damaging roads, washing out guardrails an
By Claire Benton · 2026-11-02T20:20:28.940Z
Flagstaff, AZ – Arizona highway crews are continuing emergency cleanup and repair operations Monday after record rainfall triggered flooding across the state, damaging roads, washing out guardrails and leaving rocks and debris scattered across travel routes.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, crews have been working around the clock since Friday, Oct. 30, responding to flooding that has affected highways throughout Arizona.
Among the damaged routes is State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon , a heavily traveled scenic corridor connecting Flagstaff and Sedona in northern Arizona.
Photographs released by ADOT show significant roadside erosion, damaged guardrails and large amounts of debris deposited along portions of the highway.
In one image, a section of guardrail appears to have collapsed alongside the roadway after floodwaters washed away supporting soil and rocks.
Other photographs show fallen trees, boulders and debris obstructing portions of the route.
ADOT says crews are removing rocks, clearing debris, making repairs and monitoring roadway conditions as recovery operations continue.
The agency's Traffic Operations Center is coordinating emergency responses with maintenance personnel working throughout affected areas.
Officials emphasized that restoring safe travel conditions remains the priority as crews address damage caused by the severe weather.
The department has not provided a statewide total for damaged highways or an estimated completion date for all repairs.
Drivers planning to travel through Oak Creek Canyon or other flood affected areas are urged to reduce speeds, remain patient and give highway workers adequate space.
Flooding can leave unstable road shoulders, damaged pavement and hidden debris even after rainfall has ended.
Motorists should verify current highway conditions before departing , particularly when traveling through mountainous areas where rockfalls and runoff can create additional hazards.
For updated road restrictions, closures and traffic conditions, drivers can visit AZ511.gov or use the AZ511 mobile app.
ADOT also recommends monitoring National Weather Service offices in Flagstaff, Phoenix and Tucson for additional weather and flood information.
Cleanup and roadway repairs remain ongoing across affected portions of Arizona.