A strong monsoon pattern is expected to impact much of the state through at least late Saturday night. County officials across central and northern Arizona advise people living below burn scars and in other flood prone areas to be prepared.
Nearly the entire state of Arizona is under some kind of Flash Flood Watch or Warning beginning Thursday and continuing through at least 11 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. In Coconino County, officials highly recommend signing up for emergency alert notifications at www.coconino.az.gov/ready. There is a sandbag filling station outside the county health building on King Street.
For those in the Museum Fire Flood Area who need assistance or information, Coconino County has set up a call center at 928-679-8525. Spanish speaking resources are available.
In Navajo County, emergency information can be found by dialing 311, or by calling 928-333-3412. Information can also be found at www.311info.net.
In Yavapai County, you can sign up for the Code RED Emergency Notification System at www.ycsoaz.gov.
Detailed, real-time flood information can be found on individual countys' websites and social media accounts. Following official Twitter feeds and Facebook pages is highly recommended during a weather event of this projected magnitude as information will likely move fast.
Flash flood risk is particularly high in side canyons and washes. Emergency Management officials urge hikers to stay out of these areas during this period of weather. It may not be raining where you are, but upstream could be another story. Seek high ground if you are in these areas and it starts raining.
Residents in flood prone areas are encouraged to have enough food, water and supplies to shelter in place for 3-5 days.