NWS Issues Flood Watch for South Central Arizona Through November 2
The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a Flood Watch for south central Arizona, including the Phoenix metropolitan area, effective until 5:00 AM MST on November 2. An atmospheric river is bringing prolonged rainfall to the region, creating a risk of flash flooding.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Phoenix AZ issued the Flood Watch at 12:41 AM MST on November 1. The alert covers portions of south central Arizona, including rural areas of Maricopa County, Northwest Pinal County, and the Phoenix metropolitan area. Specific locations under the watch include Central Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Glendale, Buckeye, Avondale, Queen Creek, and the Tonopah Desert, among others.
An atmospheric river moving ahead of a weather system continues to channel well above normal moisture into the area. This system is delivering a prolonged period of light to moderate rainfall across the watch area, with embedded convection generating pockets of heavier precipitation. Additional rainfall totals between 1 and 2 inches are expected through Sunday, falling on already moist soils.
The excess rainfall is expected to cause significant runoff, creating risks of flooding along rivers, creeks, streams, and low-lying or flood-prone areas. Low-water crossings throughout the affected region may become flooded. The NWS indicates that elevated runoff in major streams and waterways could persist through the first half of the week.