Monsoon Causes Deadly Flash Flooding in AZ

Monsoons in AZ have caused deadly flash floods. At least 9 people are dead and one is still missing. Among those killed were several members of a family while they were out enjoying nature. These storms are brief, but strong- dumping as much as 4" of rainfall during a single event.

This is particularly dangerous in places such as AZ, because a combination of hot and dry weather, as well as little to no rain for months at a time make the ground very resistant to absorbing water. In Arizona there are many valleys and canyons made up of compact dirt and stone. When strong storms occur, since there is no place for the water to go, it usually results in flash floods. As the water travels it often picks up dirt, rocks, trees, and brush, taking all of this debris along for the ride- which can be fatal for any living creatures in its path.

https://www.climate.gov/news-features/event-tracker/monsoon-causes-deadly-flash-flood-arizona