Stay out of Scottsdale’s greenbelt as stormwater continues to flow

Scottsdale urges residents to stay away from the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt for the next several days as stormwater continues to drain through the area. Walkers, cyclists and other visitors should avoid flooded parks, paths and crossings, even during breaks in the rain.

Water will continue flowing for days, and conditions can change quickly as runoff moves through the drainage system. Clear skies or shallow-looking water do not mean an area is safe.

Motorists should use extra caution throughout the coming week and obey all road closures. Never move barricades or drive around them to cross a flooded roadway.

City teams mobilize throughout the weekend

More than 40 city personnel mobilized throughout the weekend to assess conditions, coordinate protective measures and respond to storm-related incidents.

First responders took quick, lifesaving action Friday night as dangerous conditions developed. City teams continued assessing hazards and preparing for additional impacts throughout the weekend.

“Our first responders acted quickly Friday night to save lives under dangerous conditions, and I am deeply grateful for their courage and professionalism,” City Manager Greg Caton said. “Across the city, employees have worked throughout the weekend to assess conditions, respond to emergencies and protect our community. Please support their efforts by staying out of the greenbelt, respecting barricades and giving floodwater time to recede.”

The city activated its Emergency Operations Center at 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, in anticipation of continued unusual and unpredictable weather following significant weather-related incidents Friday evening.

With children and families participating in Halloween activities throughout the community, the activation supported additional coordination and protective measures. Emergency Management, Fire Command and Police Command staffed the center, with all city departments on standby for immediate response.

The center remained operational until most Halloween activities had concluded. Its deactivation did not mean flooding hazards had ended.

The greenbelt serves as a flood control corridor

Scottsdale’s Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt serves two purposes: recreation and flood control. During storms, its parks, paths and other low-lying areas help carry stormwater through the city.

Water can continue flowing long after rain stops, and runoff can change conditions quickly and catch people by surprise. Residents should stay away from the greenbelt for the next several days while drainage continues.

Residents should:

• Stay out of the greenbelt and avoid flooded parks, paths and crossings.
• Keep children and pets away from floodwater.
• Never walk, cycle, swim or play in moving water.
• Respect all closures and avoid entering flooded areas to take photos or watch the water.
• Follow city updates before returning.
• Respect barricades and road closures

Street crews help keep roads safe

Scottsdale’s Street Operations crews worked throughout the weekend to assess flooded crossings, place barricades and help keep motorists out of dangerous areas. Their work was a critical part of the city’s coordinated storm response.

Drivers can support those efforts by respecting every closure. Never drive around or move barricades to cross a flooded roadway.

The Scottsdale Fire Department reminds drivers that hazards can remain after rainfall ends. Water can be deeper and move faster than it appears, causing drivers to lose control or sweeping vehicles away.

Motorists should:

• Never drive through flooded streets or washes.
• Obey all road closure signs and barricades.
• Turn around and find an alternate route when a road is flooded or closed.

Allow extra travel time and remain cautious throughout the coming week. Remember that road conditions can change quickly.

Turn off automatic irrigation

Commercial property owners and managers are encouraged to turn off automatic watering systems. Soil is saturated and is expected to remain wet for an extended period. Additional irrigation can add unnecessary runoff.

Residents should also check their irrigation settings and keep systems off while the ground remains saturated.

For updated forecasts and weather alerts, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov. Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.