Grove, Arizona Flood Update

Grove, Arizona, has been struck hard by devastating flooding, resulting in two confirmed deaths and at least one person still unaccounted for. Initially, authorities reported three fatalities; however, an update from Mayor Al Gameros confirmed the current death toll.

As of Monday, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Control is actively conducting search and rescue operations across Grove and Gila County. Two drone bureaus from Arizona Public Safety are aiding these efforts, allowing search teams to rest their K-9 companions.

Rescue dogs have been scouring the area for victims since Saturday morning. Officials have inspected and cleared vehicles in multiple locations, including Icehouse and Kellner Canyon.

Mayor Gameros emphasized the need to continue searching for flood-affected vehicles while assuring the stabilization of the downtown area. “This morning, we brought in the state’s Incident Command Team, which has mobilized over 150 members and is waiting for helicopter support,” he elaborated.

The mayor urged community members who can’t get in touch with their families to reach out to authorities. He advised them to contact the sheriff’s department with a list of names for follow-up, stressing the importance of identification in tracking down vehicles lost to the flooding.

Approximately 800 volunteers are set to join the search and recovery efforts on Monday. In addition, both the state forestry crew and the US Forest Service Hotshot team are focusing on clearing debris from Pinal Creek. Heavy machinery is being utilized to remove hundreds of propane tanks displaced by the flood.

Updates on ongoing search and rescue efforts are expected from authorities at 4 p.m. on Monday.

U.S. Representative Eli Crane (R-AZ 02) remarked, “My team and I are continuously in touch with local, state, and federal partners concerning these devastating floods. FEMA is collaborating with officials to assess damage and determine what is needed moving forward. We will ensure our first responders have the resources they require.”

Governor Katie Hobbs has declared a state of emergency to facilitate ongoing rescue operations and help with the cleanup in Grove. The Arizona National Guard is set to assist where needed, and support teams are arriving from California and Nevada.

Governor Hobbs expressed her compassion for those affected: “My heart is with all Arizonans during this crisis.” She mentioned that the state’s emergency business centers are fully operational and staffed around the clock, with extensive assistance from the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Gila County officials are still assessing the extent of the damage while urging residents affected by flooding to complete a self-assessment through a designated link. Additionally, the county plans to deploy disaster response teams to help with recovery efforts.

For those with pets, Gila County Animal Care and Control has made food available and has limited spaces for overnight evacuation of animals. Authorities are also gathering donations such as pet supplies and blankets.

Residents are advised to avoid downtown due to hazardous conditions and to steer clear of flooded roads. Two emergency shelters have been set up to assist residents, located at Lee Kornegy Intermediate School and High Desert Middle School.

This week’s flooding has been particularly severe, causing significant hazards and damage, including numerous propane tanks washing downstream. Local officials are advising caution as cleanup continues.

Gila County Emergency Management has expressed concerns regarding the safety of the community and advised people to stay away from dangerous areas. Volunteer assistance should be directed toward supporting shelters rather than self-deploying to flooded areas, as this could hinder professional rescue efforts. The mayor’s message to the community was clear: helping neighbors in need while leaving the search operations to trained professionals is essential.

In the wake of this natural disaster, the community remains resilient, and efforts are ongoing to recover and rebuild.