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Telling the difference between a flood watch and a warning

While flash flooding can occur anywhere in Arizona, flooding typically occurs near creeks, washes, rivers and low-lying and poorly drained areas.

PHOENIX — It's Monsoon Awareness Week, and today's featured topic is flash flooding.

While flash flooding can occur anywhere in Arizona, flooding typically occurs near creeks, washes, rivers and low-lying and poorly drained areas.

During the heart of the monsoon, you'll often see Flash Flood Warnings in the high deserts, such as the high terrain to the north and east of the Valley, the High Country, Rim Country and the White Mountains.

Let's break down the key differences between a Flash Flood Watch and a Warning. A Flash Flood Watch means that flooding is possible, and we need to be prepared to seek higher ground. During a Flash Flood Warning, flooding is imminent or expected to begin shortly.

Just to put it all into perspective, six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult. Twelve inches of moving water can carry away a small vehicle. Meanwhile, 18-24 inches of moving water can sweep away most trucks and SUV's. This is why we often say the phrase, "Turn around don't drown!"

While the monsoon officially begins on June 15, we'll likely have to wait until July for a more active radar. 

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