Gila County, Arizona
Severe flooding has caused significant destruction in the communities of Globe and Miami, Arizona, as three storms overwhelmed the area with heavy rainfall.
In the aftermath, hundreds of volunteers have arrived in the small town to assist.
What We Know:
Residents recounted how a “wall of water” transformed the road into a raging river within just 20 minutes. Videos captured on Friday night showed cars and people swept away by the torrent.
“This is the worst thing we’ve ever seen,” shared local resident Kate McGlyn, describing how water surged into her home, reaching two and a half feet before she even made it downstairs.
McGlyn noted the community’s rapid response, with families and high school football teams coming together to support one another.
“It’s not just a tragedy that unites us,” she remarked. “Everyone wants to help. We’re really looking out for each other.”
“This is real destruction.”
Some observed the grim reality as their basements filled with water, leaving them shaken. Business owners are especially anxious about what this means for the upcoming monsoon season.
“None of the local merchants are wealthy,” Miami council member and business owner Don Rayman pointed out. “With cleanup costs and damage to buildings, it’s truly disheartening.”
He emphasized the urgent need for financial support to enhance the town’s drainage system.
What Residents Are Saying:
Reflecting on the storm’s impact, locals are assessing the damage done to their homes. One resident, Rosemary, expressed gratitude for her family’s willingness to help with the cleanup.
However, the damage was significant, particularly for families. She mentioned how a young girl’s cherished possessions, including a collection of princess dresses, were ruined by the flood.
Rosemary also shared a close call involving a young boy who was nearly swept away but was saved by her grandson.
Officials reported making progress in the recovery efforts.
Shared Community Spirit:
Many residents have banded together, expressing that while they have lost material items, the loss of life would have been much worse.
Residents Seeking Support:
This past Monday, residents raised concerns with local leaders about financial aid and future flood prevention measures after the devastating weekend storms.
There’s growing unease regarding propane tanks that have surfaced due to the flooding, and some are concerned about their safety. Michael Gorman, a local resident, mentioned the potential hazards these tanks pose, stating, “They declared a state of emergency, but now they’re just sitting here.”
“We’ve Already Lost Three Lives…”
Fire Chief Gary Robinson reassured that air quality checks confirm the area is safe despite concerns about the tanks. Gorman reiterated the importance of proper disposal of these tanks.
Meanwhile, business owners like Roger Darling are urgently calling for financial assistance, voicing their fears of going out of business. “I’ve been wiped out; I can’t afford to replace what I lost,” he said. “We need the federal government to step up and act quickly.” Darling lamented the loss of life that has already occurred, emphasizing that many residents are still unaccounted for.
During a press conference, authorities mentioned ongoing efforts to secure funding for the impacted communities.
County officials encourage affected residents to participate in a damage assessment to aid recovery initiatives.
