Weather
Northern Arizona Flash Flood Watch Friday as Pacific Storms Arrive Oct 30
Flagstaff, AZ – Arizona residents face renewed flash flooding concerns Friday, October 30, as a series of Pacific storm systems brings widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms, with a potentially
By Miles Carter · 2026-10-29T10:01:47.591Z
Flagstaff, AZ – Arizona residents face renewed flash flooding concerns Friday, October 30, as a series of Pacific storm systems brings widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms, with a potentially stronger round of storms expected Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, tropical moisture will combine with incoming Pacific systems beginning early Friday, increasing rainfall across Arizona. Saturated soils and flooding from last week's storms could make some areas especially vulnerable to additional runoff.
Flash Flood Watch Issued for Friday
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mountain Standard Time Friday for portions of central and north central Arizona.
The watch area includes locations near Prescott, Sedona, Camp Verde and Payson, extending into parts of the Phoenix metropolitan region.
Forecasters warn that strong thunderstorms could produce heavy rainfall, leading to rapid water accumulation in washes, low lying areas and flood prone roadways.
A Flash Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding, not that flooding is occurring everywhere within the affected area.
More Significant Storm Possible Sunday
Rain chances are expected to decrease Saturday before another storm system potentially arrives late Saturday night.
The Weather Service indicates that Sunday's system could be more significant, with the flooding risk increasing again through early Monday, November 2.
Strong thunderstorms are possible both Friday and Sunday, although the exact locations and intensity of the heaviest rainfall remain uncertain.
Travelers Urged to Monitor Conditions
Residents traveling through mountainous areas, desert washes and low water crossings should remain alert for changing weather and road conditions.
Flooding can develop quickly during heavy thunderstorms, particularly where soils are already saturated.
Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways and should check updated forecasts before weekend travel.
The National Weather Service issued its latest forecast graphic Thursday, October 29, at 2:50 a.m. MST.