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- calendar_today November 1, 2026
National Weather Service Issues Flood Watches for Southwest
The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that heavy rains expected from Saturday evening through Monday could cause flash flooding across already saturated regions of the U.S. Southwest. Following a sequence of soaking storms this autumn, nearly all of Arizona, as well as parts of southern Utah, southwestern Colorado, western New Mexico, and southern Nevada, are under flood watches.
Rainfall Predictions for the Region
Forecasters anticipate as much as 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rain could fall in some areas. The region has been impacted by multiple weather systems over recent weeks, creating conditions where even minor rainfall could have a significant impact. Allison Santorelli, a meteorologist with the Weather Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland, noted that saturated ground means it won’t take much rainfall to trigger flooding.
Areas Most at Risk: The Four Corners and Beyond
Particular attention is focused on the Four Corners area—where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet—which has been especially hard-hit by recent rains. The NWS cautions that both flash flooding and small-stream flooding are likely in these vulnerable zones over the coming days.
Flash Floods and Swift-Water Rescues Reported
On Friday, the Phoenix Fire Department reported rescuing people from four vehicles stranded by floodwaters. In nearby Scottsdale, crews rescued one person from a vehicle on a flooded street before another vehicle carrying two more individuals entered the waters and required rescue. Scottsdale fire Capt. Dave Folio emphasized on social media that as little as 2 inches (5 centimeters) of water can sweep a vehicle away. Both vehicles were found in 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) of water.
Incidents in Nevada and Western Arizona
Henderson, Nevada, just outside Las Vegas, saw three swift-water rescues during Friday’s downpours. According to city officials, one person was rescued from the top of a stranded vehicle, two people from another vehicle swept from the roadway, and a person pulled from a wash later died at a hospital after going into cardiac arrest.
In Bullhead City, western Arizona, heavy rains left streets covered with water, rocks, and debris, forcing the closure of parks, the city announced via social media.
Authorities Urge Caution as Flood Risk Continues
Given ongoing rainfall and saturated conditions, authorities are urging residents to avoid driving through flooded areas and to heed emergency warnings and alerts. With flood watches stretching across several states, the potential for urban and small-stream flooding remains high through the start of next week.
Weather Service Monitoring Conditions Closely
The National Weather Service and local agencies will continue to monitor forecasts and provide updates as the situation evolves. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed and exercise caution during this period of elevated flood risk.
Source: abcnews.com.
