A flood watch has been issued for Phoenix and surrounding parts of central Arizona from 8pm on Wednesday, October 21, until 5pm on Thursday, October 22, as forecasters warn of heavy rain and possible flash flooding.
The alert covers a wide area, including central Phoenix, North Phoenix and Glendale, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, the East Valley, Queen Creek, Apache Junction, Gold Canyon, Buckeye, Avondale, Cave Creek, New River and Ahwatukee.
It also includes parts of Pinal County, including Eloy, Picacho Peak State Park and areas to the west and north-west of the county.
The National Weather Service said the watch had been prompted by anticipated excessive rainfall. It warned that the alert would extend into the lower deserts, including the Phoenix metropolitan area, during Wednesday evening.
Forecasters have placed Phoenix and areas to its north and east at slight risk of excessive rainfall capable of causing flash flooding on Wednesday and Thursday.
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread overnight, with a high chance of further rain on Thursday. The National Weather Service also warned of a risk of large hail and damaging winds, while an isolated tornado could not be ruled out.
