Severe weather is set to bring heavy rain and a heightened risk of flash flooding across parts of Arizona, with a flood watch issued from midnight until 9pm on Tuesday, September 29.
The watch covers wide areas around Phoenix and central Arizona, including the Northwest Valley, New River Mesa, Fountain Hills, East Mesa, Apache Junction, Gold Canyon, Cave Creek, Deer Valley and the Rio Verde and Salt River areas.
It also includes Tonto Basin, the Mazatzal and Pinal mountains, Superior, San Carlos, Globe, Miami, Southeast Gila County and the Aguila Valley.
The National Weather Service in Phoenix said tropical moisture moving into the region would combine with an approaching Pacific weather system, increasing the likelihood of widespread showers and thunderstorms. Forecasters warned that periods of intense rainfall could lead to flooding in washes, low-water crossings and other vulnerable areas.
Public safety officials have urged motorists not to drive through flooded roads, while residents in flood-prone locations have been advised to monitor updated warnings and be ready to move if conditions deteriorate.
The storm system is also expected to bring strong monsoon winds, with tree service companies warning that weakened roots could make some trees vulnerable to being blown down.
