The Arizona city of Globe has marked the first anniversary of the flash floods that killed three people and devastated parts of the community, holding a ceremony to remember those who died and reflect on the long recovery.
The flooding struck on 26 September 2025 after more than two inches of rain fell in the area within 24 hours. Water surged through creeks and roads, inundating homes and businesses in the historic mining town in Gila County.
The City of Globe’s “One Year Later: The State of Globe” event included memorial tributes, reflections on the night of the disaster and recognition for the people and organisations involved in the emergency response and clean-up.
Mayor Al Gameros also used the gathering to discuss the progress made since the floods, as well as the work still required to repair infrastructure and strengthen the city’s defences against future storms.
Globe flood recovery continues
Mr Gameros said the first 48 hours after the disaster were focused on rescue and recovery, before thousands of volunteers arrived with shovels, rakes, lorries and heavy equipment to clear mud and debris from the downtown area.
He said almost all businesses that had been operating before the flood had since reopened, although many owners had been forced to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars of their own money and take out loans to rebuild.
Recovery work remains under way along the city’s waterways. Globe has spent millions of dollars clearing debris from the creek and stabilising damaged banks, while further repairs to roads and flood infrastructure are planned.
The anniversary ceremony also recognised the continuing impact on residents. Five homes were ultimately demolished after the flooding, with some families relocating within the community and others leaving Globe.
City officials said the event was intended not only to honour the lives lost, but also to acknowledge the volunteers, first responders and organisations that helped the town begin rebuilding after one of the most destructive events in its history.
