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- calendar_today October 31, 2026
Heavy Rains Forecast to Impact the US Southwest
Heavy rains beginning Saturday evening are expected to heighten the risk of flash flooding in already saturated regions of the US Southwest through Monday. According to the National Weather Service, up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rainfall could accumulate across areas that have already experienced significant precipitation and flooding this autumn.
Areas Under Flood Watches
The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for nearly all of Arizona, as well as parts of southern Utah, southwestern Colorado, western New Mexico, and a portion of southern Nevada. These flood watches extend to the Four Corners region, where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet—an area that has been particularly hard-hit by recent storms and flooding.
Concerns Over Flash and River Flooding
Allison Santorelli, a meteorologist with the Weather Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland, noted that even small amounts of additional rainfall could pose significant dangers. “It’s not going to take much rainfall to be impactful at all in some of these locations just because of how saturated they are,” Santorelli said. Officials anticipate both flash flooding and small-stream river flooding during this latest round of storms.
Emergency Rescues Amidst Rising Waters
On Friday evening, emergency crews responded to several incidents in the Phoenix area, rescuing individuals from vehicles that became stranded on flooded streets. The Phoenix Fire Department reported rescuing people from four vehicles, while in nearby Scottsdale, a fire captain detailed on social media how crews rescued another motorist before two more people entering the same flooded area also required assistance.
Scottsdale fire Capt. Dave Folio stated in a video posted on Facebook that even just 2 inches (5 centimeters) of water can “sweep your vehicle off its wheels,” highlighting the dangers involved. The rescued vehicles were reportedly submerged in 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) of water.
Debris and Disruptions in Bullhead City
In Bullhead City, Arizona, situated on the state’s border with California, Friday’s heavy rains left water, rocks, and debris scattered across local roads. This prompted the closure of parks and created hazardous driving conditions, according to updates from city officials.
Ongoing Risks as Storms Continue
The storms follow a string of weather systems that have made this autumn particularly severe and deadly for parts of the US Southwest. As the region braces for additional downpours, authorities warn drivers and residents to remain cautious and heed flood warnings and road closures to ensure their safety.
Source: clickorlando.com.
