Scottsdale urges residents to prepare as monsoon storms bring flood risk

Scottsdale residents are encouraged to prepare now as monsoon storms are expected to bring heavy rain, localized flooding and strong winds to the area beginning late this afternoon and continuing through tonight.

The National Weather Service forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall, with localized rainfall rates of up to 2 to 3 inches per hour. Storms are expected to develop rapidly and could cause flash flooding, particularly in northern Scottsdale, where washes and roadways may overflow.

City officials encourage residents to take simple steps now to protect their families and property before the storms arrive.

Stay safe during heavy rain

The city's top safety message is simple: Turn Around, Don't Drown. Never drive through flooded roadways or attempt to cross moving water.

Motorists should:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain.
• Obey all road closure signs and barricades.
• Stay away from low-water crossings and flooded streets.
• Never attempt to drive through running water, even if it appears shallow.

Heavy rainfall can quickly fill the Indian Bend Wash, resulting in temporary closures of several unbridged crossings, including Roosevelt Street, Osborn Road, Murray Lane, Oak Street at 77th Street, Medlock Drive, Starlight Way, Jackrabbit Road, Pecos Lane and the Safeway Plaza entrance north of Chaparral Road along Hayden Road.

Other areas that frequently experience flooding include:

• 87th Street south of Thomas Road
• 84th Place north of Roosevelt Street
• Granite Reef Road south of Roosevelt Street
• Gail Road at 83rd Place
• Scottsdale Road north of Loop 101
• Pima Road north of Pinnacle Peak Road

Residents planning to visit city parks, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or other recreation areas should call the city's information line at 480-312-3111 before heading out to check for weather-related closures.

Sandbags available while supplies last

For residents concerned about flooding, the city provides complimentary sand and bags at two self-service locations. Supplies are available 24 hours a day on a first-come, first-served basis, but demand is typically high during monsoon storms and availability cannot be guaranteed.

Sandbag locations include:

• District 1 Police Headquarters, 7601 E. McKellips Road
• Solid Waste Transfer Station, 8417 E. Union Hills Drive

Shovels, sand and bags are provided, but residents must fill their own sandbags. There is a limit of 10 bags per household.

For best results:

• Fill bags one-half to two-thirds full.
• Place sandbags in front of doors, garage openings and other entry points where water may enter.

Consider flood protection alternatives

While sandbags remain a popular option, residents whose properties are prone to seasonal flooding may want to consider alternatives that can be easier to use and more readily available.

Flood diversion tubes, portable flood barriers and water-absorbent cushions are available through many hardware stores and online retailers. These products are designed to help keep water away from homes while requiring less labor than traditional sandbags.

Prepare before the storm arrives

Residents are encouraged to follow Arizona's "Ready, Set, Go!" emergency preparedness program by taking steps now before severe weather develops.

Simple ways to prepare include:

• Assemble an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, bottled water and other essential supplies.
• Create a family communication plan in case family members become separated during a storm.
• Charge cell phones and electronic devices before storms arrive.
• Secure loose outdoor furniture, umbrellas and other items that could become airborne in strong winds.

Taking a few minutes to prepare before storms arrive can help protect lives, reduce property damage and make it easier to weather Arizona's monsoon season safely.