Weather
Weather Service Warns of Flash Flooding in Southwest Region
The U.S. National Weather Service NWS has issued an urgent weather advisory for the southwestern United States on September 16, 2026, warning of a moderate…
By Evan Cross · 2026-09-16T18:25:12.247Z
The U.S. National Weather Service NWS has issued an urgent weather advisory for the southwestern United States on September 16, 2026, warning of a moderate risk of excessive rainfall. The alert spans south central Arizona, the Sacramento Mountains in New Mexico, and extends as far north as eastern Utah and southwest Colorado. Scattered to numerous cases of flash flooding are considered highly likely in these regions.
According to the National Weather Service, the moderate risk—designated as a threat level 3 out of 4—covers a significant portion of the desert Southwest. Meteorologists are forecasting widespread heavy showers and thunderstorms, with rainfall rates expected to reach between 1 to 2 inches per hour. Total rainfall accumulation is projected to range from 1 to 3 inches, with localized areas potentially seeing totals exceeding 3 inches through the night.
Residents in the affected areas are strongly advised to remain weather aware and maintain multiple methods of receiving emergency notifications. The NWS emphasized the dangers of flooded roadways, urging the public to follow the "Turn Around, Don't Drown" protocol. Driving or walking into flooded areas is extremely hazardous and should be avoided at all costs.
For the most current updates, real time tracking, and regional safety guidelines, residents are encouraged to visit the official website at www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov . The Weather Prediction Center continues to monitor the situation, as the environment remains conducive to high intensity precipitation and flash flooding throughout the duration of the storm system.
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