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6 flash flood safety tips to help keep you safe this monsoon
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Alert Top Story

6 flash flood safety tips to help keep you safe this monsoon

  • Jul 18, 2023
  • Jul 18, 2023 Updated Jul 18, 2023

Tucson's monsoon can bring flash floods that travel miles, catching hikers and motorists by surprise. 

Here are some tips from the Pima County Sheriff's Department and the National Weather Service to help avoid getting caught in a flash flood. 

Check the forecast

Tucson Monsoon 2018 (copy)
Mike Christy / Arizona Daily Star

Before you head out, check the weather forecast for expected storm activity. Floods can be caused by rainfall miles away. 

Avoid afternoon hikes

062421-tuc-metro-weather-p1.JPG
Rebecca Sasnett, Arizona Daily Star

If you go hiking, only hike in the morning. Storms usually occur in the afternoons and evenings. 

Don't risk it

What you need to know about the monsoon season (copy)
Ron Medvescek / Arizona Daily Star

If you see dark clouds or lightning, or if you hear thunder, pack up and go home. Flooding happens suddenly and without warning, the Pima County Sheriff's Department warned. 

Avoid areas prone to flooding

Tucson Monsoon 2018 (copy)
Mike Christy / Arizona Daily Star

Stream beads, narrow canyons and washes are all subject to flooding. Also, if you see an area with flash flood warning signs posted, be extra cautious.  

 

Avoid flowing water

Monsoon causes problems on Tucson streets (copy)
Mike Christy / Arizona Daily Star

Do not cross any flowing water or flooded trails, in your car or on foot. If there's flowing water, find another route. 

Move to higher ground

070321-tuc-metro-weather-p6.jpg
Mamta Popat, Arizona Daily Star

If you see or hear a flood coming, don't try to outrun it. Search and move to higher ground as quickly as you can.   

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