TNW NEWS | BREAKING NEWS TEAM REPORT

Flash Flood Emergency Declared in Central Arizona
Developing Story — Sunday, October 12, 2025 | 3:00 PM CT

CENTRAL ARIZONA UNDER FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY

A Flash Flood Emergency is currently active across central Arizona as heavy rains inundate the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) Phoenix Office has issued the emergency for areas including Whitlow Canyon and Queen Creek, calling it a “particularly dangerous situation.” https://www.azfamily.com+1

Officials say 2 to 3 inches of rain have already fallen in parts of Pinal County, with 1 to 1.5 inches in other zones. https://www.azfamily.com+1 Flash flooding is already occurring in creeks, washes, urban streets, highways, and underpasses. https://www.azfamily.com+1

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reports that both directions of U.S. 60 in Mesa are shut down due to flooding and standing water. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV) Meanwhile, Sky Harbor International Airport has implemented a ground stop for departures under thunderstorm conditions. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

WIDE-RANGING THREAT: TROPICAL MOISTURE SURGE

Meteorologists link the deluge to the remnants of Tropical Storm Priscilla, along with influence from other Pacific systems, which are funneling deep moisture into the Desert Southwest. The Washington Post+2AP News+2 The NWS warns that slot canyons, burn scars, desert washes, and low-lying urban zones are especially susceptible to sudden flash flooding. AP News+1

Forecast models suggest rainfall totals of 2 to 5 inches may accumulate in isolated spots over the coming days. The Washington Post+1 A moderate flood risk (Level 3 of 4) has been declared for many parts of Arizona, including Phoenix and Flagstaff. The Washington Post+1

A similar tropical inflow setup has been likened to major flood events in central Arizona in past years. The Washington Post

ALREADY AFFECTED & EMERGING DAMAGE

• In the last 24 hours, Phoenix Sky Harbor’s rain gauge recorded 0.70 inches, surpassing the previous daily record of 0.31 inches (from 1928). https://www.azfamily.com
• Locations in Mesa have measured over an inch of rainfall. https://www.azfamily.com
• Flood watches are active statewide, including in the Valley, through Sunday evening. FOX 10 Phoenix+2https://www.azfamily.com+2
• Elsewhere in Arizona, in a recent unrelated flooding event, four people died after torrential rains struck areas like Globe and Scottsdale. AP News+2People.com+2
• Multiple propane tanks were swept away in that prior flood incident, creating secondary hazards. AP News

URGENT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• Move to higher ground immediately if in a flood-prone zone.
• Never attempt to drive across flooded roads. Turn around, don’t drown.
• Avoid washes, drainage channels, underpasses, and low-lying terrain.
• Monitor NOAA weather radio, TNWWeather.com, and local alerts.
• Prepare to obey evacuation orders without delay.

This remains a developing story. The TNW Breaking News Team is actively monitoring radar loops, coordinating with local emergency services, and updating coverage in real time across the website and social platforms.

TNW Breaking News Team
Assignment Desk: Todd Nardone, Editor & General Manager, Breaking News Team
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