Payson, Ariz., July 21, 2017 — The recent tragic flash flood event north of Payson serves as a reminder that flash floods can occur in any drainage, creek and river throughout the state during heavy rains and monsoon storms.
Floods are among nature’s most common and destructive natural hazards. The public should be aware that even when storms do not appear to be in the immediate area, rain from a storm miles upstream can drain quickly and create flash floods miles downstream.
According to the National Weather Service’s U.S. Natural Hazard Statistics, flash floods are the number one cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. These flash floods are extremely dangerous and swift, carrying debris, trees, rocks, large boulders, and mud that can sweep away anything or anyone in its path along stream, creek and river channels.