County under flood watch amid forecast of ‘significant rainfall’

expert says the storm will continue traveling ‘eastward through arizona’

Per the National Weather Service’s Weather Forecast Office in Phoenix (NWS Phoenix), storms moving across the state today put southwestern Arizona at “minor to moderate flood risk,” and the region is under flood watch until 6 a.m. on Saturday.

Matthew Hirsch, a meteorologist with NWS Phoenix, detailed what exactly Yumans can expect.

“For the Yuma area, the most intense rainfall is expected very early (this) morning,” he noted.

In terms of how hard Yuma County will be hit, Hirsch says that, while there will be some variability, Yumans should anticipate at least three-quarters of an inch of rain.

“In general, it’s probably going to be between three-quarters of an inch and an inch and a quarter, so quite a significant rainfall. But there is going to be some variability depending on where you are. Some locations can actually see up to an inch and a half of rain. So, there is a threat of minor flooding as well.”

Regarding where the storm is originating from, Hirsch noted, “It’s associated with a larger low-pressure system that’s off the California coast right now.”

“That low-pressure system is going to be trekking towards the Yuma area by Friday night and then eastward through Arizona on Saturday,” he added.

As for what residents can do to stay safe, Hirsch implored community members to be extra-careful while driving.

“This is the first big rain in quite a while, so I would urge people to be very careful on the roads, and if you don’t know how deep the water is, then certainly don’t drive through it.”

For further information and updates, visit www.weather.gov/psr.