GLOBE, Ariz. – At least three people have been confirmed dead after a powerful flash flood swept through parts of Gila County, Arizona, overnight, carrying away multiple vehicles and causing widespread disruption.
Emergency services responded to numerous calls late Thursday night and into early Friday morning following intense rainfall that inundated washes and low-lying areas, particularly around the Globe-Miami region. The Gila County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatalities early Friday, stating that search and rescue operations are ongoing for potential additional victims.
According to preliminary reports, the victims were discovered in different locations downstream after their vehicles were reportedly overcome by floodwaters. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased.
“This is a tragic situation for our community,” said Sheriff J. R. Gomez of the Gila County Sheriff’s Office in a statement released Friday morning. “Our deputies and first responders worked through extreme conditions overnight, and we are continuing our search and recovery efforts. We urge everyone to avoid flooded areas and obey all road closure signs.”
The National Weather Service had issued flash flood warnings for parts of Gila County hours before the incident, anticipating significant rainfall from a slow-moving storm system. Reports from residents described rapidly rising waters that turned normally dry washes into raging rivers within minutes, catching many by surprise.
Several vehicles were reported to have been swept off roads, with images circulating on social media showing cars submerged or heavily damaged by the torrent. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) closed several state routes and local roads in the affected areas due to flooding and debris, advising motorists to check conditions before traveling.
Rescue teams, including personnel from the Gila County Sheriff’s Office, Globe Fire Department, and Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), are utilizing specialized equipment, including swift water rescue units and K9 teams, to thoroughly search affected areas. The focus remains on ensuring no other individuals are trapped or missing.
The intense overnight deluge underscores the dangers of flash flooding in Arizona’s desert environment, where heavy rains can quickly overwhelm parched ground and dry riverbeds. Residents are being advised to remain vigilant as residual water and potential debris fields pose ongoing hazards.
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