New River, Arizona — A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for parts of Maricopa County in south central Arizona through 10:30 PM CT Friday, as thunderstorms drop heavy rain over the New River and Anthem area.

What is happening: The National Weather Service in Phoenix issued the warning at 5:24 PM MST Friday. Doppler radar and automated rain gauges showed thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area, with between half an inch and an inch and a quarter already fallen. Up to another half inch of rain is possible, and flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. The warning runs until 8:30 PM MST.

Local impacts: Life-threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses is expected. Places in the warned area include New River, Cave Creek and Anthem, including AZ Route 74 between mile markers 23 and 30, Interstate 17 between mile markers 217 and 226, and AZ Route 303 between mile markers 127 and 136. The Weather Service rates the flood damage threat as considerable.

What to do:

- Turn around, don't drown. Never drive through flooded roads.

- Most flood deaths happen in vehicles, so abandon a stalled car for higher ground if water rises around it.

- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid low-water crossings, dips and underpasses.

- If you see water rising around you, get to higher ground immediately.

Source: National Weather Service, Phoenix, October 30, 2026.