Grove, Arizona: Aftermath of Devastating Flooding

Two individuals have lost their lives, and there’s at least one person still unaccounted for following last week’s severe flooding in Grove, Arizona. Initial reports had indicated that three fatalities occurred, but as of Sunday morning, it was confirmed by Mayor Al Gameros that two have died.

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Control reported on Monday that search and rescue teams are still actively working throughout Grove and Gila County. Two drone units from Arizona Public Safety are aiding in the efforts, providing necessary breaks for the K-9s involved in the search.

Search dogs began sifting through affected areas on Saturday morning. Forestry officials noted that they have been working to inspect and clear vehicles in various locations, including Icehouse and Kellner Canyon.

Mayor Gameros emphasized the urgency of locating submerged vehicles and stabilizing the downtown area. “This morning, we called in the state’s Incident Command Team, the Type 3 team. They bring a wealth of resources,” he shared. “Over 150 team members are on-site, and helicopters are expected soon.”

The mayor urged residents who can’t reach their families to connect with local authorities. “Please contact the sheriff’s department and provide a list of individuals to follow up with, along with any identifying information,” he advised. “We really need to account for vehicles, as many are scattered and wedged between debris.”

About 800 volunteers are set to join recovery efforts on Monday. The state forestry team, alongside the US Forest Service Hotshot unit, has resumed clearing debris from Pinal Creek. Heavy machinery is being deployed to remove hundreds of propane tanks that were dislodged in the flooding.

Updates on search and rescue operations are scheduled for 4 PM on Monday.

US Rep. Eli Crane issued a statement expressing ongoing communication with local, state, and federal partners regarding the flooding. FEMA is currently assessing damage and determining further needs, and a range of emergency declarations may follow based on these assessments.

Gov. Katie Hobbs declared a state of emergency to support rescue operations and clean-up efforts across Grove. The Arizona National Guard is being deployed for assistance, with support from crews in California and Nevada as well. At a press conference, Gov. Hobbs expressed her concern, stating, “My heart goes out to everyone in Arizona affected by this.”

She elaborated that emergency business centers are fully operational with around-the-clock staffing. The Arizona Department of Public Safety has deployed over 70 personnel, alongside additional drone and ranger support.

Authorities are unable to confirm how many people may still be missing. During a Saturday emergency meeting, the Grove City Council declared a state of emergency, enhancing its authority and resources for the response.

The nearby town of Miami also declared a state of emergency, and the local school district canceled classes for September 29th.

This past weekend, search and rescue personnel were active throughout the region, particularly concerned about an estimated 1,000 propane tanks that were carried downstream. Emergency manager Carl Melford noted, “This presents significant hazardous materials challenges.”

City officials have advised residents to avoid downtown due to unstable buildings and hazardous debris, urging the public to steer clear of flooded areas. Gila County officials continue to evaluate the extent of the damage in Grove and nearby areas, asking residents affected by flooding to complete a self-assessment through a provided link.

Plans are being developed to launch disaster response teams to assist in debris removal. For residents with pets in need of shelter, Gila County Animal Care and Control has made food available. There’s also limited space for evacuated pets; assistance can be requested via a dedicated phone number.

Authorities are accepting donations of pet food, blankets, and towels at designated shelters during their open hours. The eastbound lane of US 60 was temporarily closed on Saturday due to flooding, but planned closures later in the week have been canceled as cleanup continues.

Melford commented that the recent flooding was notably more severe than in 2021, particularly impacting the areas affected by the previous Telegraph Fire. He confessed, “I grew up here, but now it hardly looks recognizable.” He encouraged community members to support one another and avoid personal searches for loved ones, leaving those efforts to trained rescuers.

“If volunteers go into these flooded areas, it can disrupt rescue efforts and put everyone at further risk,” he cautioned, while suggesting alternatives like providing supplies to those in shelters.

The Arizona Forestry Incident Management Team has been spearheading the search and rescue activities over the weekend, with more than 150 individuals deployed to assist.

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced of dozens of propane tanks floating in floodwaters, some apparently releasing gas, although others seemed empty. Numerous vehicles were also reported to be partially submerged in the deluge.

Local residents shared experiences of considerable flooding late Friday night.

Gila County Emergency Management continues to recommend evacuation and advises against venturing into roads or outside spaces until conditions stabilize. Two emergency shelters have been established for residents in need. The information for these locations is below:

• Lee Kornegy Intermediate School – 4635 Railroad Ave, Miami, AZ 85539
• High Dessert Middle School – 4000 High Dessert DR, Globe, Arizona

The Apache Gold Casino and Resort has opened its facilities as an emergency shelter, offering accommodations to those affected.

In the wake of the floods, many historic structures in downtown Grove sustained significant damage. The wild horse saloon, for example, suffered serious harm from raging waters, with debris scattered across roadways.

Water levels reported by gauges around the region rose alarmingly from Thursday to Sunday, highlighting the severity of the flooding.