A powerful storm system has led to evacuation orders in parts of Arizona and southwestern Colorado as forecasters warn of impending flash flooding. The National Weather Service indicated that the storm has already brought heavy rainfall over the Southwest, with threats continuing through Monday.
The most severe risks are concentrated in Arizona, southern Utah, southwestern Colorado, and western New Mexico, areas still recovering from significant flooding experienced just over a week ago. The Weather Prediction Center cautioned that additional rainfall on already saturated ground could lead to rapid runoff, increasing the chances of flash flooding, particularly in steep regions, slot canyons, and burn-scarred areas.
In Sedona, Arizona, city officials issued evacuation orders for certain areas on Sunday, advising residents not to cross flooded roads. Sedona Fire District Chief Ed Mezulis emphasized the importance of safety, urging residents to remain on higher ground due to rising water levels.
Rivers in the region are expected to face extreme pressure. In Pagosa Springs, Colorado, the San Juan River is forecast to rise to levels not seen in more than a century. A “particularly dangerous situation” has been declared as the river is anticipated to crest at 19.38 feet during the night on Sunday into Monday morning—over four feet higher than last month’s peak and surpassing the historical record of 17.8 feet set in 1911.
A mandatory evacuation order was put in place on Saturday night for residents, businesses, and visitors in Pagosa Springs, particularly those near the San Juan River and in low-lying areas. The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management extended evacuation instructions on Sunday to parts of Conejos County due to the risk of flooding.
Officials emphasized the need for preparedness, advising individuals in affected areas to leave promptly and move to higher ground, as floodwaters can rise rapidly. Rainfall predictions for Arizona suggest three to five inches in parts of the Mogollon Rim, especially north and east of Phoenix, while southern Utah and western New Mexico could see up to three inches.
The storm system is anticipated to shift east towards the Great Plains on Monday, with conditions expected to improve across the Southwest thereafter.
