Weather
Arizona Flood Watch: Flash Flood Threat Expands Wednesday Oct 21=22
Phoenix, AZ – A widespread flash flood threat is developing across Arizona, with flood watches covering Phoenix, Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona and numerous surrounding communities beginning Wednesday, O
By Evan Cross · 2026-10-20T08:01:12.606Z
Phoenix, AZ – A widespread flash flood threat is developing across Arizona, with flood watches covering Phoenix, Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona and numerous surrounding communities beginning Wednesday, October 21. Heavy thunderstorms could produce dangerous flooding through Thursday, October 22, particularly along roads, desert washes and low lying areas.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Flagstaff and Phoenix, a strong weather system will draw deep subtropical and tropical moisture into Arizona, producing widespread showers and thunderstorms across northern, central and portions of south central Arizona.
In northern and central Arizona , including Flagstaff, Sedona, Prescott, Payson, Show Low, Winslow and the Grand Canyon region, a Flood Watch begins early Wednesday morning and continues through Thursday evening.
Forecasters warn that thunderstorms could trigger flash flooding in normally dry washes, creeks, swimming holes and areas recently affected by wildfires. Prolonged rainfall could also increase water levels in rivers and streams.
Across the Phoenix metropolitan area , including Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, Tempe, Gilbert, Surprise and Queen Creek, a separate Flood Watch takes effect Wednesday evening and continues through Thursday afternoon.
The Phoenix weather office warns that localized rainfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour , potentially overwhelming drainage systems and flooding low water crossings.
Additional flood watches cover Globe, Miami, Superior, San Carlos, the Superstition Mountains and surrounding communities beginning Wednesday morning and continuing through Thursday evening.
Travel conditions could deteriorate quickly , especially where heavy thunderstorms cross highways, rural roads and flood prone crossings. Motorists should avoid driving through flooded roadways, even when water appears shallow.
Residents should monitor updated forecasts and maintain reliable access to emergency weather alerts.
A Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding, not that flooding is already occurring. Flash Flood Warnings may be issued if dangerous flooding develops.
For updated alerts, visit weather.gov/flagstaff or weather.gov/phoenix .