Flood alerts announced for Coconino County and the Grand Canyon

Flash Flood Warning Issued for Coconino County

The National Weather Service has put a flash flood warning in place for Coconino County, including the Grand Canyon. This warning started at 4:02 PM on August 23 and is set to expire at 7 PM on the same day.

This alert is particularly relevant for the Dragon Bravo North Canyon and South Canyon areas, where ongoing thunderstorms are expected to result in flash flooding. The Colorado River is affected over a stretch of 21 to 32 miles.

As of 4:02 PM, Doppler Radar detected significant rainfall over both canyons, measuring between 0.25 to 0.5 inches. There’s a possibility of receiving an additional 0.25 to 0.75 inches of rain in the warned areas. The situation is serious, with life-threatening flash floods reported or anticipated soon. Excessive rain in burn areas is contributing to debris flow, which includes rocks, mud, and vegetation.

Locations like Grand Canyon National Park and Saddle Mountain wilderness may experience flash flooding. This warning encompasses several recreation areas and campsites: Navaho Pinnacle, Lawn Cedar, Cave Wash Basin, Tiger Wash, Sinumo Wash, Island, Fence Breakdown, Sunpile, and Upper South Canyon Campsites.

Additionally, streams and washes affected include House Rock Wash, North Canyon Wash, the Colorado River, South Canyon, Sinumo Wash, Sheep Spring Wash, Hajisho, Tiger Wash, and 22 Mile Wash.

Earlier that day, at 2:50 PM, a warning was also issued regarding a fire scar from a pipeline on West 89 until 4:45 PM. Heavy rainfall was reported over this area, though no additional rainfall is expected. However, flash floods remain a concern near these scar areas.

Areas experiencing or potentially experiencing flash floods include Schultzpas, Pine Mountain Estate, Timberline, Hutchison Acres, Fernwood, Donny Park, and Kachina Peaks Wilderness.

Upcoming Flood Clock

The National Weather Service also issued a flood clock for Coconino County, lasting from 3:25 PM on August 23 until 8 PM on August 25. Flash floods may result from excessive rainfall across northern Arizona, particularly in areas like Grand Canyon Country, Kaibab Plateau, and other regions affected by recent burns.

Flash flooding is most likely in streams and dry washes and could occur in narrow canyons. Those in low-water crossings should be especially cautious as flooding could happen rapidly.

Looking ahead, numerous showers and thunderstorms are predicted over the coming days, leading to heavy rains in short bursts.

For tips on preparing for the storms and potential flooding risks, Coconino County officials recommend measures such as purchasing flood insurance, having an evacuation plan, and knowing how to stay safe from flooding hazards.