Tucson, Ariz. – A widespread Flood Watch is in effect this week across much of southeastern Arizona, with the greatest risk for flash flooding beginning Thursday in Cochise, Graham and Greenlee counties and extending into the Tucson metro by Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, tropical moisture from the Gulf of California, fueled by a strong low-pressure system, will drive heavy rainfall through Saturday evening. Storm totals of 1 to 2 inches are expected across valleys, with localized mountain areas—such as Mount Lemmon, the Rincons, and the Chiricahuas—possibly receiving up to 3 inches.
The watch includes Tucson, Sierra Vista, Nogales, Green Valley, Douglas, Bisbee, Safford and Clifton. Flooding is most likely in low-lying areas, washes, and poor-drainage neighborhoods, with low-water crossings becoming dangerous or impassable. Rural highways, including stretches of I-10 near Willcox and U.S. 89 near Nogales, may also see closures if heavy downpours persist.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways, monitor local alerts, and prepare for potential flash flood warnings. The watch remains in place through Saturday evening, with additional advisories possible if rainfall continues into early next week.
