Monsoon Season Active with Flash Flood Threats
Key Questions
What is causing the current flash flood threats?
Deep tropical moisture from the active monsoon is producing slow-moving storms that can drop 3-5 inches of rain locally. Burn scars from the Pocket and Sycamore fires increase runoff risks. Warnings were issued for Coconino County near Flagstaff.
Which areas have flash flood warnings?
Warnings cover parts of northern and southern Arizona, including Coconino County near Flagstaff. National Weather Service offices in Flagstaff and Tucson issued alerts on July 17. Storms continue to trigger new warnings across the state.
How long will monsoon storms last this week?
Scattered to numerous thunderstorms are expected daily through the week. Potential exists for damaging winds, hail, and localized flooding. The Southwest Monsoon pattern is delivering ongoing heavy rainfall to Arizona.
How has the monsoon reduced fire danger?
Recent rains have lowered wildfire risk across Arizona's high country. The Pocket Fire is now 83 percent contained after burning over 27,000 acres. Moisture has allowed some fire restrictions to ease in northern areas.
What flood protection measures exist in Flagstaff?
New mitigation projects completed by city emergency managers help protect against monsoon flooding. The city reports it is well-prepared for the season. These upgrades address runoff from intense storms.
What rainfall totals are possible during these storms?
Slow-moving cells could produce 3-5 inches locally in burn-scar areas. This raises flash flood risk especially near the Pocket and Sycamore fires. Scattered storms are forecast to continue delivering moisture.
Are there any tropical weather updates affecting Arizona?
The national tropical update confirms the Southwest Monsoon is actively bringing heavy rainfall. No direct tropical systems are impacting the state at this time. Canadian wildfire smoke is noted elsewhere but not affecting Arizona monsoon activity.
What other hazards accompany the monsoon storms?
Damaging winds, hail, and lightning are possible alongside flooding. Dust storms may occur in lower elevations such as the Valley. Storms are expected to remain active throughout the week.
Monsoon season is active with deep tropical moisture bringing slow-moving storms that could drop 3-5 inches locally, raising flash flood risks especially on burn scars from the Pocket and Sycamore fires. Flash flood warnings have been issued for Coconino County near Flagstaff as storms pass through. Scattered to numerous thunderstorms are expected through the week, with potential for damaging winds, hail, and flooding. A national tropical update confirms the Southwest Monsoon is delivering heavy rainfall to Arizona.