Arizona and Southern California Face Flash Flood Risk as Storm System Brings Heavy Rain
ARIZONA — A developing storm system moving across Southern California and Arizona is set to bring widespread rainfall and the potential for localized flash flooding through the day, according to meteorologists tracking regional radar and moisture patterns.
The system, which is drawing in ample Pacific moisture, is producing heavy rain, scattered thunderstorms, and possible flooding across portions of western Arizona, southern Nevada, and southeastern California. The National Weather Service (NWS) has identified areas with “flooding likely” and “flooding possible” zones, highlighting a need for caution in Yuma, Kingman, and Phoenix, as well as along the lower Colorado River basin.
Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms to Continue Through the Afternoon
Forecasters say the setup includes optimal lift and instability, creating conditions for embedded thunderstorms that could drop intense rainfall over short periods.
- Phoenix and Kingman are under the greatest risk, with rain totals possibly exceeding 1–2 inches in localized pockets.
- Yuma and western Arizona could experience quick downpours leading to temporary street flooding and mudslides in desert washes.
- Las Vegas and southern Nevada are also seeing steady rain, though the heaviest cells are expected to stay east toward Arizona.
The Flash Flood Risk Map issued this morning shows a yellow zone of higher flooding potential across northwestern and central Arizona, while surrounding areas — including southern California, Tucson, and Las Vegas — are under a green zone, indicating moderate but possible flooding impacts.
Southern California: Showers Moving Inland
In southern California, showers began moving in early this morning from San Diego to Los Angeles, where lighter rain bands are expected to persist throughout the day. While flash flooding is less likely in these urban areas, localized ponding on roadways is possible, especially in areas with poor drainage.
Forecasters warn that runoff from higher terrain could flow into dry washes and low-lying zones, producing rapid rises in water levels.
Safety and Travel Advisories
Residents in Arizona and southern California are urged to stay alert for flash flood warnings and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Even shallow water can quickly become dangerous, particularly in desert and canyon regions where terrain can channel runoff.
- Keep phones charged and emergency alerts enabled.
- If traveling, monitor local radar apps and highway updates for closures.
- Avoid dry riverbeds and low crossings during active thunderstorms.
The rain is expected to taper off gradually overnight, but isolated showers could persist into early tomorrow morning.
Meteorologists say this event may be a precursor to a wetter late-November pattern, as additional Pacific systems line up for the Southwest.
Stay tuned for continued weather updates and travel advisories on NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.