FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the Flagstaff area as thunderstorms with heavy rain develop in the area.
According to the NWS, rainfall amounts of 0.75 to 1.75 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.
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The warning is in effect until 4:15 p.m. for Flagstaff, Fisher Point, Foxglenn Park, Pine Canyon, Country Club, Sunnyside, Northern Arizona University, Downtown Flagstaff, Flagstaff Mall, Marshall Lake, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, Thorpe Park, Mountainaire, Coconino Estates, Mt. Elden, Railroad Springs, Picture Canyon Preserve, Pine Del, Fort Tuthill County Park and Walnut Canyon National Monument.
This includes Canyon Vista Campground, Canyon Vista Campground, Woody Mountain Campground and Fort Tuthill Campground.
Flood waters are expected for those in Mt. Elden Estates, according to NWS. People are advised to shelter in place. If outdoors, get to high ground and do not enter drainages. The Paradise and Grandview neighborhoods could see elevated flows in Spruce Wash downstream.
According to APS, 3,009 customers lost power in the area of Elden Lookout Road and Route 66 and Cedar Avenue to Railhead Avenue. The utility says equipment has been damaged by the weather. They have restored power to all but 90 customers.
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Flooding Safety:
The Arizona Fire & Medical Authority has provided the following tips on what hazards to watch out for during and after a flood, including fire, electrical and chemical safety:
Generators and alternative heating devices can create fire hazards during flooding if they aren’t used correctly or maintained properly. Pools of water and appliances can become electrically charged and can cause electrical fires.
On electricity, residents in flooded areas should turn off the power to their homes if they can reach the main breaker or fuse box. All wiring in the house may be electrically charged and hazardous. Residents should have a professional technician check their home for damages before turning on the power.
Make sure potentially combustible liquids like paint thinner, lighter fluid or gasoline haven’t spilled within or near your home. Keep combustible liquids away from electrical or alternative heat sources as to not start a fire.
All smoke alarms in the home should be tested monthly and batteries should be replaced yearly. Some smoke alarms are dependent on your home’s electrical service and may go out when power is turned off.
Make sure the fire hydrant near your home is cleared of debris so the fire department can assess it easily in the event of a fire.