Severe Weather Triggers Evacuations Across the Southwest
In an unexpected turn of events, the usually dry Southwest is grappling with heavy rainfall, leading to flash floods and mandatory evacuations. Affected areas include Sedona, Arizona, and Pagosa Springs, Colorado, both popular tourist destinations that are now facing urgent flood threats.
Residents near Oak Creek in Sedona have been ordered to evacuate, as rising waters have already trapped several individuals in their homes. Meanwhile, Pagosa Springs is bracing for potentially “catastrophic flooding,” with the San Juan River expected to rise to over 19 feet, surpassing the devastating 1911 flood levels.
The Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office warned in a Facebook post that “extensive damage is expected,” urging residents to take immediate action.
The intense weather, which began Saturday evening, is expected to persist through Monday, with the National Weather Service forecasting up to 4 inches of rain due to a series of Pacific storms. Flood watches have been issued for most of Arizona, parts of southern Utah, southwestern Colorado, and western New Mexico, including the Four Corners region.
Data from the Maricopa County Flood Control District highlight the severity of the situation, noting nearly 3 inches of rain in Scottsdale, Arizona, just west of Gainey Ranch. Authorities in Pagosa Springs have urged those in low-lying areas to seek shelter at a local church and warned of limited emergency response capabilities during peak flooding.
In Sedona, residents have been directed to Sedona Red Rock High School, with officials emphasizing the dangers of driving through flooded roads. Sedona Fire District Chief Ed Mezulis advised in a Facebook clip, “Please stay at high ground, watch your alerts and be careful.”
Social media posts depict the dramatic impact of the floods, showing vehicles submerged and waters rushing past homes. Videos capture individuals taking photos as the turbulent waters surge beneath pedestrian bridges, illustrating the unexpected and severe nature of this weather event.
