Devastating flash flooding caused by heavy monsoon rains has claimed at least four lives across central Arizona, leaving a path of destruction and triggering a hazardous materials situation in the historic mining town of Globe.
Governor Katie Hobbs has declared a state of emergency for Gila County as search-and-rescue operations continue.
Massive Flooding in Globe
The worst of the damage occurred in Globe, a city of about 7,250 residents, approximately 88 miles east of Phoenix.
Officials reported an unprecedented amount of rain—with one gauge recording over 2 inches in just 25 minutes—that quickly turned downtown streets into raging rivers.
- Fatalities: Three of the deceased were found in the Globe area. Two were recovered from a vehicle, and a third was found in the floodwaters.
- Destruction: The floodwaters swept through the downtown area, damaging numerous buildings and overturning vehicles. Some residents were forced to climb onto rooftops to escape the rapidly rising water.
- Hazmat Concern: The flash flood washed out a local propane tank distributor, scattering an estimated 1,000 residential-sized propane tanks throughout the community, including on Highway 60. Hazardous materials teams have been deployed to secure the area and monitor for leaks.
Fourth Victim Found Near Phoenix
The fourth confirmed fatality occurred outside of Globe, near the suburban Phoenix area of Scottsdale.
- Scottsdale Incident: A 38-year-old victim’s vehicle was discovered submerged in approximately eight feet of fast-moving water late Friday evening.
- Discovery: After floodwaters receded Saturday morning, crews located the person’s body pinned underneath a walkway bridge.
Search and Rescue Operations Continue
Gila County emergency management officials confirmed that a massive search and rescue effort is underway, as they investigate reports of additional missing residents.
The search was temporarily halted Saturday due to ongoing storms, which increase the risk of further flash flooding.
Mayor Al Gameros and other officials have urged the public to stay completely out of the flood zone, emphasizing that the historic downtown area is unsafe due to compromised structures and debris, and volunteer interference could hinder the work of trained search teams and rescue dogs.
Governor Hobbs’ emergency declaration commits $200,000 from the Governor’s Emergency Fund to aid in recovery.
You can see video of the devastation caused by the extreme rainfall in this report: 4 dead after flash flooding in Arizona. This video is relevant as it provides visual context and initial details on the tragic flood event in Arizona.
