Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Pinal County: Flash Flood Risk Looms

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Pinal County, Arizona, after the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tucson reported powerful storms bringing heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and the risk of flash flooding on Oct. 13. The alert was issued at 11:39 a.m. MST, followed by a flash flood warning at 11:58 a.m., as storms continued to intensify across the region.

Radar indicated between 1.5 and 2 inches of rain had already fallen by 12:28 p.m., with meteorologists warning of wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail as large as one inch. Communities including Eloy, Picacho, and Picacho Peak State Park are expected to be impacted, with flooding possible in Pinal Airpark and Red Rock.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Details and Safety Alerts

The NWS confirmed that a severe thunderstorm was detected about 12 miles southwest of Picacho, moving northeast at 25 mph. The primary hazards are wind gusts reaching 60 mph and quarter-sized hail. Such conditions pose significant risks, including hail damage to vehicles, wind damage to roofs and siding, and falling trees.

Highways in the path of the storm include Route 87 (mile markers 116–120) and Interstate 10 (mile markers 206–220), where travel may become dangerous. Officials strongly urge residents to seek shelter immediately inside sturdy structures and stay away from windows. Driving through flooded roadways should be avoided at all costs, as even shallow moving water can sweep vehicles away.

The flash flood warning remains in effect until 3 p.m. MST. With rainfall totals already exceeding 1.5 inches in some areas, rapid flooding of low-lying regions, washes, and dry riverbeds is possible. Even areas where skies appear clear can experience sudden flooding if rainfall occurs upstream.

Understanding Severe Thunderstorms and Flash Flood Risks

Arizona’s monsoon season typically runs from June 15 to September 30, but severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of year. These storms often bring strong winds, intense lightning, and torrential rain within minutes. A “severe thunderstorm warning” indicates that conditions are either occurring or imminent, with winds above 58 mph or hail larger than one inch.

Flash floods are especially dangerous in Arizona’s desert terrain. Because the ground is often dry and hard, it cannot absorb heavy rainfall quickly, leading to sudden and forceful water flows. Such floods can develop in less than six hours, threatening roads, neighborhoods, and parks far from the storm’s center.

Officials recommend moving to higher ground immediately if flooding begins and never attempting to cross flooded roads. Even six inches of moving water can knock down a person, and a foot of water can sweep away most vehicles.

Precautions and Preparedness for Residents

Authorities urge residents to monitor local weather alerts and remain indoors during the storm. Outdoor activities should be suspended at the first sound of thunder, as lightning can strike miles away from storm clouds. Pets should be brought inside, and outdoor items secured to prevent them from becoming airborne debris.

After the storm passes, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities. Avoid contact with electrical devices and plumbing during lightning events. If driving is unavoidable, exercise caution and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions.

This severe thunderstorm warning underscores the unpredictable nature of Arizona weather and the importance of heeding official safety guidance. With flash flooding possible in multiple areas of Pinal County, residents are urged to stay alert and take precautions until the storm fully clears.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What does a severe thunderstorm warning mean?

It means severe weather with winds of 58 mph or higher or hail an inch or larger is occurring or imminent. Residents should take immediate shelter.

Q2: How much rain has fallen in Pinal County so far?

Doppler radar shows between 1.5 and 2 inches of rain have fallen in parts of the county, with more possible as storms continue.

Q3: Which areas are at highest risk of flash flooding?

Picacho, Picacho Peak State Park, Pinal Airpark, and Red Rock are among the areas most likely to experience flash flooding.

Q4: How can drivers stay safe during flash flooding?

Never drive through flooded roadways. Just a foot of moving water can carry vehicles away. Seek alternate routes or wait until waters recede.

Q5: When will the warning expire?

The severe thunderstorm warning was in effect until 12:30 p.m. MST, while the flash flood warning extends until 3 p.m. MST.